21. When to say "no" when you want to say "yes"

We often think overcommitment stems from saying yes to things we don’t want to do—but what about the things we do? In this episode of The Bright Method Podcast, I explore a different kind of overwhelm: the kind that comes from saying yes to exciting, meaningful, energizing opportunities... that still tip us into burnout when they collide with everything else already on our plates. If you're someone who’s energized by life and wants to say yes to everything that lights you up, or if you’ve ever found yourself drained and wondering, “Why does this all feel like too much, even though I love these things?”—this episode is for you. We’ll talk about: Why saying no to great things can be the smart move (because saying yes when it would overcommit you would prevent you from enjoying it – and probably other things, too) How to evaluate personal and professional opportunities in the context of your full life How to define the pace you want your life to feel like in this season Tools to help you time your yeses more strategically The value of trusting that there will be more chances in the future—and when to table ideas for later I also walk through the concept of life chapters, how to practically plan for them, and why using a digital calendar or long-term planning spreadsheet can help you feel more grounded in what to say yes to—and when. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a new lens to evaluate the things you’re excited about—so you can pursue them with more intention and fewer regrets. If you're ready for time management strategies that take your full life into account—including your goals, energy, values, and capacity—you’ll love this one.   Resources mentioned: Article about the long-term planning tool, the "Years are Short" spreadsheet (idea belongs to Kelsey Wharton). Links you might enjoy: 🌿 Free 5-Day Time Management Program Get five short, practical video lessons packed with realistic strategies to help you manage your personal and professional life with more clarity and calm. 📱 Follow me on Instagram Get bite-sized, real-life time management tips for working women—like reminders to set mail holds before travel, anonymous day-in-the-life calendars from other professional women, and behind-the-scenes looks at how I manage my own time. ✨ The full Bright Method™️ program If you're ready for a full time management system that's realistic, sustainable, and dare I say… fun, check out the Bright Method program. It's helped hundreds of professional women take back control of their time—and their peace of mind.