Most of us say yes without thinking - because we want to be liked, helpful, or because it just seems like the right thing to do. But we often pay for those yeses with resentment when the time actually comes.

There are two parts to "doing less": what you'll say yes or no to in the future, and what you're already committed to doing that you no longer want to.

It's much better for everyone that you say no to something you'll feel resentful of when the time actually comes to do it.

For new requests, you have yesterday's exercise to help you determine if you should really just be saying no.

But what about the stuff you are already committed to that you wish you hadn't?

There are actually 4 ways to tackle this - choose what works best for you and the situation.

Extract - have a tough conversation with whoever you are committed to and explain how at this time you will need to step back. Example: Sorry I can't make cookies for the bake sale this week, unfortunately I have a last-minute project that needs my full attention.

Delegate - pass on the responsibility to someone else, like a partner, child, or if you're at this point in your business, an assistant. Example: I can't make cookies for the bake sale this week, but my son is going to make brownies.

Outsource - pay someone else to handle it. Example: I can't make cookies for the bake sale this week, but I can bring bagels.

Swap - trade an unwanted chore with a friend. Example: I can't make cookies for the bake sale this week, could you make extra and I'll drive carpool on Saturday.

Your 35 Day Productivity Journey