Say yes to no

Saying “no” makes all the difference.

Here’s what helps me:

1. Define a goal
2. Make a list of tasks
3. Ask, “Does this task (activity, event, enhancement, feature in your product, bullet point in your presentation/talk) help achieve my goal(s)”.
4. If the answer is no, do away with it.
5. Learn to say no.

Refuse to say maybe. Move away from tricky responses. If it’s not in the product release, say no, but state when it will be. Be honest during interviews. Say no to things that you can't do, but express your willingness to learn. Say no to missing dinners with your family.

Credibility will always be valuable. Say yes to no.