3-2-1: On control, saying no, and keeping an open mind
It always makes more sense to concentrate on the direct alternatives — the things you do control. What others do is up to them, but there’s always a great deal you can do. Choose from the alternatives that require only your decision — not from among the many hopes that someone will be something other than what he is.
Harry Browne • How I Found Freedom in an Unfree World
When you say no to something small, it could help to build your courage to say no to something bigger. Remember, it’s not for the sake of saying no. It’s so you can say yes to what really matters.
Emily P. Freeman • The Next Right Thing: A Simple, Soulful Practice for Making Life Decisions
Be a Meaningful Specific Instead of a Wandering Generality On saying “no” and declining things: “The phone rings, and lots of people want a thing. If it doesn’t align with the thing that is your mission, and you say ‘yes,’ now [your mission is] their mission. There’s nothing wrong with being a wandering generality instead of a meaningful specific,
... See moreTimothy Ferriss • Tools of Titans: The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers
to stay in control, it's better to keep your options open during the writing process rather than limit yourself to your first idea.