Know when to say No

We have a diverse community with countless opportunities. This at times can become tempting. Sometimes when we are presented with an opportunity, like seeing an alert for a new role or even being directly approached by a leader asking if you would like to apply for a role, it can be hard to say no.

The reality is that the opportunities will continue to come, even the same opportunity/role can be availed at a later time. There is no real sense of urgency that we convicne ourselves of. That role you want, will still be there in a few months or maybe there will be a better role for all you know.

Don’t assume that the opportunities are ‘now or never’, understand that it is okay to say no and express that while you are interested, you do not have the time/avalibilty. Saying No beforehand actually adds to your credibility as a volunteer. This way leaders know that you know your limitations and you know when to say no. If you say yes despite knowing you are stretched thin, sooner or later you will burn out and end up either dropping the role or ghosting your task which does not contrubute positively to your credibility as a volunteer.

My point being, saying No is 100 times better than taking on a role when you know deep down that you do not have the time.