Getting to NO - Saying NO Takes Courage

Early this year, I spent time evaluating the last two years to see what lessons I could learn. The client assignments I took, where I spent my time, how I spent my money. That led to thinking about how we make decisions.

Several factors make it hard for me to say no to opportunities. I hate to walk away from people who need help; I don’t shrink away from challenges; I am agreeable and can be pulled into saying yes. Most importantly is the fear that client work will dry up. I typically agree to three-to-four-month initial engagements and count on new opportunities and existing client expansions to keep A2Badvisors busy.

All that has led to me periodically deciding on a course of action, even when my gut was telling me not to.

I recently listened to an interview with Diana Chapman on the Knowledge Project podcast. She discussed the concept of a Whole Body Yes. When facing a decision, pay attention to your whole body – your feelings, comfort levels, and gut instincts. If you don’t have a Whole Body Yes, then say NO. Never override yourself.

I put this into practice recently. I received an opportunity to help a company that is raising money, I liked the team, and I would work with a friend. I almost jumped on the opportunity. However, after reflection, I decided the timing was not right and passed on the engagement. Having the control to make the right decision felt liberating.

I encourage you all to take the time to evaluate things thoroughly and check your gut for any big decisions you need to make.

Thought for the day:

“A man is about as big as the things that make him angry.”
- Winston Churchill

We launched a post-fundraising planning service in December using the A2B Playbook, our planning, and infrastructure growth tool. We are helping two organizations that recently raised money sharpen plans, set quarterly priorities, and develop Board reporting and communication packages. And, we are supporting their infrastructure growth during the process. These engagements have gone great. Together, we are shrinking the time from investment to action and enhancing communications with new investors.
 
Let us know if we can provide this service for you or companies you know.