Are You a “Yesser”?
Do you find yourself saying “yes” to every new request, project, or task that comes your way? If so, you might be a “yesser”—someone who automatically agrees to take on more without fully considering the impact. It’s an easy trap to fall into, especially if you’re a people-pleaser, a natural problem-solver, or simply trying to be a team player. But before you give one more “yes,” let’s take a step back.
Every “yes” you give is also a “no” to something else. When you commit to one thing, you’re sacrificing time, energy, or focus that could have been spent on your priorities or existing responsibilities. Over time, this habit can lead to burnout, missed deadlines, or projects that are only half-completed—not to mention the frustration of feeling stretched too thin.
Before your next “yes,” consider these questions:
- What will this commitment require of me? Be realistic about the time and effort involved.
- How does this align with my goals or priorities? If it doesn’t, think twice.
- What’s the cost of saying yes? What tasks or goals might you need to delay or drop?
- Am I the right person for this? Maybe someone else on your team is better suited for the task.
Learning to pause before you agree—and sometimes even saying “no”—isn’t about being unhelpful. It’s about being intentional. By choosing your commitments wisely, you’re not just protecting your own productivity and well-being; you’re ensuring that when you do say yes, you can give it your all.
So, the next time someone asks, “Can you do this?” take a moment. Don’t just be a “yesser”—be a thoughtful, strategic contributor. Your time and energy are worth it.