About 2 months ago, I watched ‘Yes Man’ starring Jim Carrey. Carrey’s character ends up saying, “Yes” to what seems like any and everything that is asked of him. Though the premise to the movie is great and explores what life really can be, sometimes saying, “No” is the right call.
While working in a 9-5, cubicle job, I quickly learned that accepting everything asked of me was not possible nor did I want all of these responsibilities in my life. I still did what was asked of me for my job, but I wasn’t looking to get ahead in that job so all that extra work was not important to me. Some of you may think that is lazy, but I see it as focusing on what is important—my life.
My approach in life is to minimalize all the unnecessary and maximize what I love. To do so, I have learned that I need to limit my responsibilities. If a responsibility isn’t getting me ahead in my life, why would I do it?
Saying no does have its downsides too. I have lost out on many trips and small opportunities because of my personal responsibilities. But I have sacrificed some of those because I am looking at the big picture and wanting some more than those smaller opportunities provide. Working online 12 hours a day can be tiring and tedious, but working hard now for the reward later is well worth it to me. That balance and work ethic in a minimalist lifestyle are what create a simple, enjoyed life.
I suggest trying to say, “No” more often. I think you will have many people mad or disappointed with you, but who really cares if you are living the life you want to live.
Dave Damron
The Minimalist Path
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