I was on a group call recently and there was an enthusiastic discussion about a new event that was coming up, and before I knew it, I nearly said Yes to something that was not really a good fit for me. What I had to do, was take a moment and stop my default of ‘Just say yes’.
It felt like, if I said yes, it would show that I was supportive, keen, and looking to stretch myself. The thought of saying No felt like I would be judged for not stepping up and not being part of the group. Of course, the reality was, I said No, and it gave someone else the opportunity to step up. Everyone else in the group barely noticed that I had said No.
On reflection, I am so glad I said No to being a part of the new event. It will be a great event, just not a good fit for what I want to achieve.