I’m Saying No More In 2018
“Say no. Say it often. It may be difficult saying no, but you owe it to yourself and your clients. Turn down jobs that don’t fit you, say no to overbooking yourself. You are no good to anyone when you’re stressed and anxious.”
Time for a moment of honesty. I made a promise to myself and to my clients that I’m saying no more in 2018.
As an individual, I’ve never really struggled with standing my ground whether it be for my beliefs or saying no to someone/something. That’s always been a part of my pretty honest and straigh forward personality, and I’ve never been apologetic about it. Since starting my business, I’ve found myself questioning situations regarding my business that I would have never questioned if I weren’t coming at it from a business owners position.
The thing is, there’s no need for there to be such a huge difference in Allison the person and Allison the business owner.
Do I love people?
Yes! So that translates to my business in how I offer pre-session consultations to understand your vision, in how I offer free reprints if a product comes incorrect, or even in how I ensure I stay in the know with your personal life. These are things I care about as a person and therefore I care about them as a business.
Do I want the best for others?
Of course! And I’ve chosen particular prints and wall art over giving digitals that won’t ever make it to a wall, desk, or albums for that reason. Prints give me more work to do but I don’t mind because they’re absolutely worth it! They’re gorgeous, they’re memorable, and they’re way more memorable than a dusty cd in your desk drawer.
I say all of that to say, “I stand for what’s best for myself/my business and what I feel is best for those who are looking for the best.”
And in that process, unfortunately there’s a conflict if it means having to say no. No to digital files, no to mediocre business practices, and no to selling either of us short. The relationship between us is supposed to be symbiotic. You want an unforgettable experience and I love getting to know and grow with others all while utilizing my skill and “how-to” knowledge.
“No” does not have to be a bad word.
It’s oftentimes empowering and leads to bigger and better.
+ Bigger & Better Means Just That +
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Great advice! I always take on too much, and find myself extra frustrated!!
One step at a time 🙂
Good for you! I did this last year and never looked back! Good luck!
Congrats! I’m sure your clients love you for taking such good care of them.
And thanks!
No does seem like a bad word sometimes, doesn’t it?
It does and I think it’s because sometimes we perceive a “no” as the end all, be all. They aren’t though. Sometimes they’re “not yets” or “not that, but this!”, and number of much better ends. All about perception 🙂
Such sound advice that we should all be following! Thanks for saying this!
Reworking mindsets one step at a time! It’s an ongoing process for us all.