I realized that without the silence, all I bring to the platform and my audiences are echoes of words rather than insights. Now that you have identified what is, make a list of questions to ask yourself when you begin to take on a role and task. I recently accepted an assignment that will cost time, money and effort as well as time away from home. The reality is that we find the people tedious, demanding, and downright boring. I have finally determined that if I have limited time with my family and friends, it is perfectly fine to periodically decline such invitations.
Irresistible requests are gifts to be gratefully accepted.
I have discovered that unlike many of my colleagues, non-stop travel is exhausting and not fun. My body requires seven hours of sleep, regular exercise and down time. I was asked if I would run for the Board of a non-profit. However, when I tested the request against the other questions listed above, more negative responses appeared. The art of balancing an unequal life means that we seek answers to all these questions before choosing the next activity to put in our life.