"تفاوت بین افراد موفق و افراد واقعاً موفق این است که افراد واقعاً موفق به تقریباً همه چیز نه می‌گویند"

The core idea here is simple yet profound—saying "no" more often can be a game-changer. Successful people are good at what they do, but "really successful" people? They excel because they know their limits and prioritize their energy and time.

This concept isn't new. Warren Buffet, the iconic investor, is known for this philosophy. He mentioned it in interviews, emphasizing that protecting your time fiercely allows you to focus on what truly matters. It’s not just about being busy but being productive in the right areas. Imagine being invited to a hundred dinners, galas, and meetings every month. If you said "yes" to all of them, when would you have time to focus on your goals or even relax? Warren Buffet, despite his vast network, is picky. He chooses a few crucial things to concentrate on.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Think about Steve Jobs. He was known for his almost ruthless ability to turn down anything that didn't align with his vision for Apple. When he returned to Apple in 1997, the company was struggling with too many products and no clear focus. Jobs cut down Apple’s product line from 350 to 10. Can you imagine the boardroom discussions? People must have thought he was nuts. But this laser focus on a few, excellent products turned the company around. The iMac, iPod, iPhone—all these came from saying "no" to numerous other ideas and ensuring the company’s energy was not scattered.

So how do you apply this wisdom? Start by assessing your commitments. Are there things you say "yes" to out of obligation or fear of missing out? Practice saying "no." It might feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s liberating. Picture your time and energy as a limited currency—spend it wisely. And don’t worry about offending people. It’s about setting boundaries, not being rude.

Here’s a relatable scenario. Suppose you’re an aspiring writer. You’ve got a day job, but you dream about finishing your novel. Your friends constantly invite you to outings, and your inbox is flooded with social events, volunteer opportunities, and side projects. It’s overwhelming. By saying "yes" to everything, you spread yourself thin and never make real progress on your book. Now, imagine if you started saying "no." No to that weekend getaway, no to the extra committee at work, no to binge-watching TV every night. With fewer distractions, you carve out consistent writing time, progress on your novel, and eventually, finish it.

Saying "no" isn’t about being negative or anti-social. It’s about reclaiming your time for what you value most. Next time you’re faced with a choice, ask yourself: "Does this align with my goals? Will this bring me closer to where I want to be?" If the answer is no, then it’s probably best to decline.

In a nutshell, sometimes the key to success isn’t adding more to your plate but knowing when to push it away. So, start practicing the art of saying "no," and watch how it opens up space for what truly matters.