While they are all reputable and worthy causes, my time is so limited for the rest of the year, my eyes cross at saying yes to one more thing, no matter how much I want to do it. It's a real personal struggle for me to turn down opportunities like this to serve and contribute...mainly because I want to help, but moreso because I'm a chronic overachiever. But I'd be taking the risk of not being fully prepared to teach my first graduate course at Trinity University if I spread myself any thinner. I was slated to begin this fall, but I'm now filling in for another professor on vacation for the summer as well. I'm teaching Nonprofit Marketing & Public Relations in the School of Professional Studies, and I'm so psyched to tell you guys all about the books & resources we'll be using, etc. But for now I'm in serious panic mode: the first class meeting is on May 28, and I haven't even completed my syllabus yet!
It's good to know that leadership opportunities ARE indeed out there for young nonprofit leaders like me and you and everyone we know. I just have to stay committed to my own work/life balance and do the things I'm already doing well - in addition to my full-time day job. When you do have to say no, however, we should all remember to say it nicely and be sincere if you'd like to reconsider the opportunity at another time. For example, this is what I told the WeLead ladies:
I'm honored by your invitation to join the board of WeLead's wonderful program. Right now, however, I'm already committed to several board roles and wouldn't want to take on another and be ineffective! I would LOVE to be considered for next year, if possible. Thanks again for the invitation and I will continue to spread the word about your program!
I hate not being able to do things like this, but I know it's much worse to say yes and not pull your weight on a board. Anyone else have a hard time saying no? This is becoming a real killer for me...
2 comments:
I'm awful at saying "no," too! Especially to things I'd love to do. However, I'm not yet at that point where I am getting more offers/invitations than I can really handle. The only thing that comes to mind is getting asked to draft a grant proposal (my first ever) in the span of a month. The month before our biggest event (as in table assignments for 900 people) of the year. Fortunately, it was for an expansion of an existing program, and I really wanted the experience. But I don't really remember being outside of the office much that month. It was worth it (we got the grant! and the event went smoothly), but I definitely couldn't have sustained those hours for much longer and definitely not without some serious vacation time after the event.
First of all, congratulations on those board offers! You're right that there are ways to say "No" without burning bridges. Your response demonstrates respect for their organization and your openness to work with them in the future. It also demonstrates that when you sign on to something, you are dedicated and strategic about managing your time, which is exactly what boards need.
My guess is that you will have these offers again next year.
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