4. A Strategic No & the Possibility of Yes

Growing up, I played soccer and tried out for the high school team. I didn’t make the cut. So, I quickly pivoted to tennis and squeaked on the team at number 16. By senior year, I held the # 1 position. Then I arrived at the United States Air Force Academy where Division One play was on a whole new level. I tried my best but spent a lot of time picking up tennis balls.

After two years, it was time to move on. This opened the world of intramurals – water polo, cross country, and rock climbing. I didn’t letter in any of these, but I made friends and had fun.

In business, as in life, a Strategic No opens the Possibility of YES. Sometimes we choose and sometimes life chooses for us. Either way, it’s what we do that determines our path.

A Strategic No drives clarity and allows us to focus where our passion and vision best meet the world’s needs. Channeling Porter, “The essence of strategy is choosing what not to do.”

For me:

• No, I will not serve on the PTA this year.

• Yes, I will lead a Girl Scout Troop.

• No, I will not try to serve everyone.

• Yes, I will focus on small & medium sized businesses and non-profits looking to scale and grow.

What does it look like for you?

• Where can a Strategic No propel your business?

• What excites you about the possibility of YES?

• What is one thing you can do today to move toward these goals?

I help executives reclaim valuable time to focus on what matters most. This means leaders work ON the business instead of IN the business. Whether it's a 10-year vision, 3–5 year strategy, or 90-day action plan - we partner to achieve your goals.

If you want to break through to the next level in your business, drop me a message, and we'll arrange a 15-min call to see if I can help.

Be well.

~Susan