When Saying Yes to Everything Stops Working

As business owners, we’re conditioned to chase opportunities. To say yes. To stay open. And for a long time, I did exactly that—especially earlier in my career. Every new opportunity felt like a stepping stone, a chance to grow, to be seen, to move forward.

But at a certain point, I realized that not every “yes” was moving me closer to my goals. Some were actually distractions, pulling me away from the very life and business I was trying to build.

So, I made a shift. I started practicing discernment in every decision. I began asking myself three key questions that have helped me make choices rooted in clarity, not pressure. And those questions recently helped me make a very personal, very intentional decision: to return (temporarily) to the classroom.

Why I Chose to Return to Teaching (for Now)

The first question I ask myself is:

1. Does this choice align with the priorities and values of my life and family?

This one was huge. Returning to teaching was not a step backward for me—it was a step into stability. With a family to care for and a political and economic climate that’s increasingly unpredictable, I knew I needed to ensure our financial foundation remained strong.

This move wasn’t about giving up on my business. It was about not putting undue stress on my family while continuing to build my dream. It was about aligning my present decisions with my long-term values.

Choosing Strategy Over Scarcity

The second question I rely on is:

2. Will this move me closer to the vision I have for my business?

The answer surprised me: yes. As a freelance web designer, every project I take on shapes the direction of my business. And while I’ve gained clarity about my design style, ideal clients, and niche, I’ve also realized that saying yes to every project—just to keep income flowing—can muddy that vision.

By having another reliable source of income, I’m able to say no to work that doesn’t fit, and yes to building a business that reflects my creativity, values, and long-term goals. I can grow with care, strategy, and thoughtfulness. That’s a win.

The Cost of a Yes

That brings me to the third—and often the hardest—question:

3. What will I have to say no to in order to say yes to this?

This one gets real, real fast.

When you’ve been in your industry as long as I have (15+ years in education), you build a strong network. I’ve had the immense privilege of receiving multiple offers and opportunities simply because of the relationships I’ve cultivated over time. It’s humbling and deeply affirming.

But I’ve learned that I can’t do it all. Every new “yes” means a “no” to something else—my time, my focus, my family, or my business goals. I’ve had to practice saying, “Thank you so much for thinking of me, but I’m not able to take this on right now.”

And here’s the surprising part: People have respected that. No burned bridges. No hard feelings. Just respect. The boundary actually built credibility, not diminished it.

Discernment Is the New Hustle

A younger version of me—one without a husband and child—would have jumped at everything. And honestly, I still want to sometimes. I’m a naturally curious, creative person. I love new challenges. I love saying yes. I’m also a bit of a people pleaser.

But now, I know my energy is a limited resource. I’m no longer trying to prove I can do it all. I’m trying to do what matters most.

Discernment has become my new hustle. And saying no? That’s become one of the most powerful tools in my toolbox.

Ask Yourself These 3 Questions Before Your Next Decision

If you’re standing at a crossroads—professionally or personally—these are the three questions I recommend asking yourself:

1. Does this choice align with the priorities and values of my life and family?
2. Will this move me closer to the vision I have for my business?
3. What will I have to say no to in order to say yes to this?

Let them guide you. Let them ground you. And remember: every “no” creates space for a deeper, more meaningful “yes.”

Final Thought

The ability to choose with clarity is one of the most empowering things you can do as a business owner—and as a human being. Keep aligning. Keep building. And don’t be afraid to say no if it means staying true to what you’re really working toward.