Knowing when to say NO…

This post was sparked by two recent events — both resulting in happy endings…

Event # 1…

A firm I greatly respect recently announced they were seeking a part time coach for consultants. Eight to twelve hours a week, as part of a paid program to help struggling consultants take their business to the next level.

My immediate reaction was to respond. Not only did it sound like a good fit, but it also sounded like fun. So I submitted the on line application, and was pleased to be invited for further discussions the following week.

Due to our annual AZ to MN summer migration (our way of dealing with AZ heat along with grandkids in MN) we postponed the meeting by a week. This gave me time to really think about the potential commitment I might be making.

Upon reflection, I decided to decline. Why? At this stage in life, I did not want to be tied down to a long term regular schedule. Actually, this was one of the original motivations for making my original JumpToConsulting. Like many consultants, I thrive on new challenges, and routines quickly bore me — and eventually grind me down.

As Dirty Harry famously said in one of his movies, “A man has got to know his limitations.” Thankfully I recognized mine in time.

Event # 2…

This one was a bit more serious, from a post on a financial blog I follow. The author was a retired career Navy officer in the submarine service.

He shared a story from early in his career, when he was offered the “opportunity of a lifetime” for an immediate promotion and accelerated career advancement. But it meant long term sea tours instead of anticipated shore duty for the next two years.

The fly in the ointment was he had just married his fiancé after waiting for the opportunity to finally be together. From the pained expression on his face, his CO immediately realized what his answer would be – even before our hero did.

Yes, he turned the offer down, realizing it was not the best career decision. But as he explained, it was the RIGHT decision for his brand new marriage. He is still happily married almost 40 years later – now retired and living the good life in Hawaii – and with no regrets.

Some closing thoughts…

When faced with decisions like this, I often ask two key questions:

• Could I do this?
• Should I do this?

And then I trust my gut. These two questions have served me well. I hope they help you.

Peace — Uncle Daryl 

PS – Tomorrow marks 54 years of happy married life. Thanks, Mary, with all my love!

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