If you want to be effective in your life you need to learn the fine art of saying, “N-O”. You need to make clear boundaries between what you will and will not do. Otherwise you will be left to ping-pong between dead-end opportunities and what others think you should do leaving no time or energy for what truly matters.

“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…” Ecclesiastes 9:10

I have really struggled with this over the years. Opportunities arise, someone thinks you would be a perfect fit for (fill in the blank)…before long all of other peoples demands and obligations leave you stressed, burned out & ineffective.

I like to say, “yes”.

But I have limits – my time and energy is not endless. (Unfortunately this lesson has come later than sooner.) I can either intentionally focus my time and energies on what is most important or I can abandon my purpose and waste my time pleasing others.

I choose to respectfully decline those things that are rabbit trails that detour me from my destination. I will not feel guilty for saying, “No” and I will have peace that my purpose is not diluted.

This is not a free pass to be lazy. You have work to do. The things that God has placed on your heart to do these are the things you need to do with all your passion, energy and creativity. Join me! Say, “no” then get to work!

“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as unto the lord and not to man. Colossians 3:23