4/365 - NO

The power of NO is something that frequently eludes me; however, I fully embraced it today in my quest to simplify. I didn't realize how much stress was wrapped up in a certain decision. Once I made the decision to say no, I felt lightness and liberation. Immediately.

Saying no is hard for me because of (alleged) control issues and FOMO. Those things I felt I "had" to do, because of a sense of duty or service or passion, ultimately snowballed into something much bigger. I got caught up in it all because I like to be involved; I like to be in the the know; I like to explore and collaborate and solve, and I'm pretty damn good at it. But eventually one has to decide which direction to take - a full commitment at a higher level or just checking out?

Ultimately, I decided that the FOMO that bothers me is all the other stuff in my daily routine. My workouts. My writing. Minding my house. Feeding my family. I won't "miss out" if I'm the one driving my own daily agenda. By cutting back on certain commitments and the numerous, lengthy meetings that come with them, I will instead have time to focus on the things that I wish to prioritize. I'm trading status, influence, and clout for anonymity, simplicity, and happiness.

Just say no. It sounds simple. It's not. But it's worth it.