A Yes Person’s Guide to Saying No

Defenses upI've always been an enthusiastic person. I like to jump from one project to the next (literally running, when possible) with my knobs turned to 11. I tend to do well on relatively short action cycles; getting started on (and being ready to move on from) tasks sooner than my more methodical peers. I like to jump in with both feet. And I like to say yes! when people ask me to do things, or collaborate on projects. This is partly because I genuinely like doing things, partly because I like to support well-intentioned projects, and partly because I want to be a generous person — someone who who helps out, pitches in, and, when reasonable, says yes rather than no. These things have gotten me in a lot of good places, brought me enjoyment (and plenty of hard work!), and in general I'm grateful for the results.However, I've read the books. I've followed the blogs. And one thing they agree on: you need to be able to say no. In order to have your best effect in the world, you need to…