Just Say No
In Measure What Matters, John Doerr explains that every time you elect to do something, you are simultaneously choosing not to do something else. There are only so many hours in a day. Learning how and when to say no can enable you to get more juice out of every squeeze.
Turning down a request from a boss or a team member is difficult. Our natural disposition is to want to please others. When a request is made, saying no may give the impression that you are letting someone down or creating a conflict.
Fear of missing out is another reason why many property managers are reticent to say no. This fear often results in saying “yes” to almost every request.
Other reasons saying no can be difficult include the fear of damaging a relationship, missing an opportunity and a blow to one’s ego. Saying no can challenge one’s perception of their competency and capabilities.
When should you say no? Ask yourself, does the request contribute to your goals?
Does the request excite you, provide a professional challenge or leverage your distinctive competencies? If not, no may be the best response.
Establish boundaries, especially with your team. Determine if the request is because a team member wants to press the easy button and not find a solution themselves. Make sure your team understands what they can and should not bring to you.
Saying yes to everything can be taxing and contribute to undue stress. Many entrepreneurial property management professionals are driven. Traveling at less than 100 miles an hour can be uncomfortable. Learn to take a step back to spend some time on yourself, whether that involves a trip to the gym, rest or some other activity that does not involve managing property or people. And saying no more often may be the best tonic available.