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Diplomat Quote by Debora Spar

“You have to learn to say no not just to things you don't want to do, you have to say no to things that you want to do, things that are good to do. You have to realize that every time you say yes to one thing you've got to take something else off the plate. Critically, I think you have to realize…” quote by Debora Spar
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“You have to learn to say no not just to things you don't want to do, you have to say no to things that you want to do, things that are good to do. You have to realize that every time you say yes to one thing you've got to take something else off the plate. Critically, I think you have to realize that it's easier to say no than to say maybe.”

Debora Spar

About This Quote

Source Interview: Personal Development Podcast, 2023

Saying no protects time and focus; saying yes consumes resources.

In simple terms: Choosing no preserves capacity.

Key Takeaway

Practice selective commitment.

Themes

boundaries choice productivity

Mood

reflective balanced

Type

strategic motivational

When to use this quote

  • work projects
  • social invitations
  • personal goals

Key Concepts

opportunity cost decision making

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does saying no enable you to do?
  • When is saying yes beneficial?
A Different Perspective

Saying yes can also create valuable opportunities.

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