Taking a little extra time to say yes can work to your advantage in a big way.
Our culture seems to create a sense of urgency no matter what the situation. Our language is even geared towards creating this intensity. Consider the two statements:
- As soon as possible: Rarely is the emphasis on the possible, but rather the emphasis is on the soon.
- Deadline: I mean really, this is seriously dramatic considering it has the word “dead” in it.
No doubt there are emergencies…..and there seem to be more created emergencies based on someone’s preference rather than it actually needing to be an emergency. Here are some helpful statements to slow your eagerness to say yes.
- I would love to help and I will need to get back to you on that.
- I will definitely think about this, when do you need to hear back from me?
- Ah, yes, so I do not make same day decisions unless it is a life or death emergency. When can I get back to you tomorrow?
- I need to check and see if that is going to work inside of the other commitments I already have.
We all want to be a teamplayer and we are responsible for our own branding. If you overpromise and underdeliver this will eventually require you to rebrand yourself so people are clear about what they can count on you for.
In the meantime or in the longtime, consider slowing down your yes. As entrepreneurs and leaders, you set the pace. Be intentional about setting a pace that supports your success and your wellbeing.
Image by Anete Lūsiņa
