Chapter 6

Say Yes to Saying No

by Alexandra Samuel

If your e-mail in-box looks like mine, it’s full of requests and invitations that promise challenging new projects, clients, and commitments. Sure, you enjoy the stimulation and excitement that come with these offers, but it’s a fine line. You have to be selective about what you take on—and disciplined about retiring long-standing activities to make room for new ones. You have to be able to say no. Frequently, politely, and effectively.

The good news is that the same technologies that threaten to overload you with things to say yes to can also help you say no. Here’s how:

Set your intentions

Before you say no, make it clear to yourself what you want to say yes to. Sites like 43Things.com and ...

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