 One simple word can be transformative in how we manage our time, energy, and priorities: “no.” As a productivity consultant, I’ve witnessed countless professionals regain control of their schedules and achieve meaningful goals simply by embracing the strategic use of this small yet powerful word. Saying no can feel uncomfortable, but when done thoughtfully, it becomes an essential tool for creating space for what matters most. To illustrate the power of “no,” I’m sharing a personal story. This blog post includes a photo of me in a hotel room overlooking Lake Como, Italy. The picture is meaningful because it represents a month-long sabbatical I took—the first of my career. Making that trip possible required me to say “no” to many things: spending money on other things to save for our adventure, potential work engagements, clients, and other activities that conflicted with my vision for the trip. Every “no” served as an investment in a bigger “yes,” allowing me to prioritize an experience I’ll treasure forever.  Here’s how you can start using “no” to reclaim your time and focus on what matters most: Why Saying No Matters
Practical Tips for Saying No
Learning to Love Your “No” Remember, every “no” you say is a gift of time, energy, and attention for your most important “yes.” For me, those “no’s” meant I could take a month-long trip to Italy and return refreshed and inspired. That photo is a reminder for me of the joy that comes from prioritizing what truly matters. What about you? What could saying “no” make possible in your life? Start small, practice often, and watch how this tiny word transforms your time and productivity. As a recovering people pleaser I know it can be hard. Here are a few more tips on saying no at work when it’s the right thing to do. Do you need help knowing when to say no? Do you need help prioritizing all of the things to which you have said yes? Our individual “It’s About Time” productivity coaching sessions help our clients take control over their busy schedules and have more time for things that really matter. Set up a Discovery Call today to learn more about how Simply Placed can help!  Debbie Rosemont is a Certified Professional Organizer, Productivity Consultant and Trainer and Owner of Simply Placed. Simply Placed teaches organized systems and productive habits that allow busy professionals to maximize their time, focus on their priorities, reduce stress, improve their customer service and increase their bottom line. She is the author of Six-Word Lessons to Be More Productive.
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When you think about productivity, you might immediately think about time management strategies, to-do lists, or the latest productivity apps. While those are helpful, there’s one often-overlooked factor that can make or break your effectiveness: your mindset. Before you tackle any task, consider that mindset determines not only how well you do it, but also how efficiently you accomplish it. A simple mindset shift can work wonders. Here’s how to “get your mind right” before you dive into your work. It’s worth that extra minute to set yourself up for success. Take a Minute to Visualize Success Before starting a task or project, take just one minute to visualize successful completion. Ask yourself: What does “done” look like? How will it feel to have accomplished this task? This quick exercise helps you clarify your goal and primes your brain for effective action. It’s like giving your mind a clear map to follow. Think of it as a mini mental rehearsal. Athletes use this technique all the time. A basketball player will picture sinking a perfect shot before they actually take it. This practice can be just as powerful in the office or at home. Whether you’re about to write a report, clean out a cluttered space, or prepare for a presentation, imagining what success looks and feels like creates focus and intention. to see partner with you in your success!  The Power of “Walk-Up Songs” To understand how mindset preparation works, let’s take a cue from baseball. When a batter steps up to the plate, their “walk-up song” plays—a piece of music carefully selected to pump them up, inspire confidence, and set the tone for their performance. This ritual is a cue that signals it’s time to focus, get in the zone, and bring their best effort. This idea doesn’t just apply to professional athletes. My son Eddie, pictured here, who played baseball through college, (including helping his team make it to the NCAA DIII College World Series last season), used a similar approach when he pitched. Before each season, he chose a song that would play as he took the mound and threw his warm-up pitches. It varied year to year and it was his “theme” song. Some years, the song was fast-paced and aggressive; other years, it was more about steady confidence, still others, just about having fun. He selected what he needed to hear to perform at his best. His mindset was intentionally curated with the help of a few musical notes. My Personal “Running Soundtrack” I use this technique myself, not on the baseball field, but when I run. I created a Spotify playlist and titled it “Race.” I hand-picked each song because it matches the tempo at which I want to run and the energy I want to feel. The lyrics and beats help push me forward when my legs feel heavy. What makes this playlist even more powerful is that I invited my grown kids, their significant others, and my husband to add songs they think will motivate me. When I hear a song they’ve chosen, I picture them cheering me on. Their musical choices inspire me, and knowing they’re invested in my success makes me feel supported. This mental boost helps me run faster and with more joy. You can apply this same idea to your work. Whether it’s creating a “focus playlist” for deep work sessions or selecting a motivational song to play before a big meeting, music can be a powerful tool to get your mind right. Other Ways to Get Your Mind Right Music and visualization aren’t the only tools to help you shift into a productive mindset. Here are a few more methods you can use:
Small Mindset Shift, Big Results These mindset techniques might seem small, but their impact is anything but. Just as a batter’s walk-up song can shift their energy or a minute of visualization can clarify your approach, getting your mind right before you start can dramatically improve your productivity. You’ll find yourself working with greater focus, ease, and efficiency. So before you tackle your next task, take a moment to set your mind—and your success—in motion. That brief pause could make all the difference. Do you have a song, a theme word, a playlist or visualization exercise you use to get your mind right? Please share! And if you’re interested in knowing Eddie’s warm up songs over the years, or are curious as to my favorite selections from my “Race” playlist, just speak up; I’m happy to share as well. If you’d like help working on mindset and building habits that can help get your mind right and boost your productivity, schedule your free no-risk Discovery Call. We’d love to see partner with you in your success! Debbie Rosemont is a Certified Professional Organizer, Productivity Consultant and Trainer and Owner of Simply Placed. Simply Placed teaches organized systems and productive habits that allow busy professionals to maximize their time, focus on their priorities, reduce stress, improve their customer service and increase their bottom line. She is the author of Six-Word Lessons to Be More Productive.
Last year held some wonderful highlights for me: Eddie graduated college, moved to the Bay area with his girlfriend, landed a great job and got a dog (I have a Granddog!). Sarah was accepted into her dream Master’s program in Child and Adolescent Psychology at the University of Washington, moving with her boyfriend from San Francisco back to Seattle. I also had the privilege of taking beautiful trips and spending good time with family in Alaska, California, and Hawaii. But like everyone else, the year also came with challenges that weighed on me. As the New Year approached, I realized I needed to shake things up. I wanted to start the year in a way I hadn’t before, so I planned something different: a mini Solo Retreat. This get-away was an experience of “both can be true” harmony, a lovely way to bring in the New Year. It included:
For two days, I carved out quiet time for myself. This intentional space allowed me to engage all my senses and appreciate life without distractions. Here are some of the highlights of my retreat:
While I wouldn’t want to spend every New Year solo, this retreat felt deeply restorative. It was an opportunity to welcome the year on my terms. I’m so grateful to my friends who opened their space for me and to Rob for understanding my need to take this time. What Do You Need to Shake Up This Year? If you’re craving new results, consider what you might do to shake things up. Maybe it’s creating intentional solitude, trying an activity you’ve never done before, or reevaluating the habits that no longer serve you. The key is stepping out of your usual routine to make space for something new. Want to talk about what you will you do to break the mold and start your year in a way that feels right for you? Let’s make 2025 the year of intentional, meaningful change. Schedule your free no-risk Discovery Call. We’d love to partner with you in your success! Debbie Rosemont is a Certified Professional Organizer, Productivity Consultant and Trainer and Owner of Simply Placed. Simply Placed teaches organized systems and productive habits that allow busy professionals to maximize their time, focus on their priorities, reduce stress, improve their customer service and increase their bottom line. She is the author of Six-Word Lessons to Be More Productive.
Are you a New Year’s Resolution setter? For those who are and set resolutions on January 1, how’s it going? Last Friday was National Quitters Day; a day less than two weeks into the year when many people have already abandoned the goals, habits, or resolutions they set out to achieve. While I’m not someone who makes New Year’s resolutions, I am someone who sets goals, identifies priorities, and strives for specific results all the time. The reason I avoid New Year’s resolutions isn’t that I’m against fresh starts; quite the opposite! I don’t believe we need to wait for the start of a new year to begin anew. Fresh starts are shiny, exciting, promising, and we approach them with renewed energy, motivation and efforts. This is why they’re so powerful; it’s positive mojo!! This is the Fresh Start Effect. We can declare what we want, focus our efforts, and follow a plan at any time of the year. The start of a new year is a natural time to reflect on the past and decide what you want in the months ahead. Therefore, the turn of the calendar acts as a seasonal prompt for a fresh start. However, the Fresh Start Effect is not limited to January 1. Fresh Starts Are Everywhere A fresh start can be sparked by many moments throughout the year. A new season, a birthday, an anniversary, the first day of a quarter, or the start of a new month can serve as a reset. Every Monday can feel like a fresh start. And honestly, every single morning, when you put your feet on the floor and get out of bed, you have an opportunity for a fresh start. How to Leverage the Fresh Start Effect Whenever you decide to start fresh, consider taking these steps to set yourself up for success:
Whether it’s a new day, a new week, or a new season, any moment can be a turning point. By reflecting, setting intentional goals, and taking deliberate action, you can harness the power of the Fresh Start Effect anytime, not just on January 1. So, what fresh start will you choose today? Need a productivity boost or some support in getting the results you want? Our consulting and coaching includes valuable tools and strategies that guide, support and hold you accountable to the success steps listed above. Let’s make 2025 the year of intentional, meaningful change. Schedule your free no-risk Discovery Call. We’d love to partner with you in your success! Debbie Rosemont is a Certified Professional Organizer, Productivity Consultant and Trainer and Owner of Simply Placed. Simply Placed teaches organized systems and productive habits that allow busy professionals to maximize their time, focus on their priorities, reduce stress, improve their customer service and increase their bottom line. She is the author of Six-Word Lessons to Be More Productive.
 Leadership is a crucial aspect of any organization's success. Managers are integral to achieving the company's goals, and their leadership style significantly influences team performance. Here we examine how the golden rule, which states that you should treat others as you would have them treat you, may be applied to management and how it can lead to better leadership outcomes. This principle has been around for millennia and has applications beyond human relationships. When applied to leadership, the golden rule is a guiding concept for managers to lead their teams effectively. You Should Treat Others Like You Want to be Treated Managers should treat their team members respectfully while in a leadership setting. They may establish a productive and encouraging work atmosphere that inspires and encourages their team by demonstrating empathy and understanding. By treating others as they would like to be treated, managers demonstrate to their team what behavior is acceptable and expected, setting an excellent example for the rest of the team to follow. When managers consistently treat their team members with respect and fairness, they increase trust within the team, leading to improved collaboration and communication. Do Not Ask Your Team to do Anything You Would Not do Yourself One of the most notable advantages of using the golden rule in leadership is that it stops managers from asking their teams to perform things they are not comfortable doing; this leadership style fosters a sense of justice and equality. Managers who lead by example exhibit their dedication to the team's success and build a healthy work environment. Maintain the Same Level of Expectations and Accountability for Yourself The golden rule expects managers to have the same expectation and accountability as the rest of their team. Managers must be willing to accept responsibility for their actions and be accountable for the repercussions of their decisions. The Advantages of Adopting the Golden Rule in Management As a manager, following the golden rule will win your team's respect and establish a positive and harmonious work atmosphere. It will show a culture of trust, honesty, and open communication, leading to increased team morale, work satisfaction, and productivity. This approach encourages your team to reciprocate the conduct, which leads to fewer disagreements and more significant team connections. So, it's not just about being a decent person but also about fostering an excellent work atmosphere that benefits everyone in the long term. The golden rule is a classic notion that has shown to be an exceptional management technique. Middle managers may establish a good and supportive work atmosphere that encourages and inspires their team by adhering to this rule. By setting a high bar for their team and holding themselves accountable, managers may build a culture of responsibility and accountability inside the entity. Thus, the golden rule has proven to be a powerhouse tool to lead teams with finesse and achieve goals like a pro.  Nick Anderson has been a student of leadership for 30 years beginning the day he received a novel “Leadership Award” from his U-12 soccer coach. During his 25-year career in banking Anderson led teams through mergers, acquisitions, bank failure, recessions and rapid growth while successfully managing the throes and pitfalls of being a middle manager. As a community volunteer Anderson led nonprofit organizations through periods of significant change as a board member, treasurer, vice president and board chair. Learn more at Chosen-Leader.com.
 Written communication is one of the most essential forms. Effective writing involves careful choice of words and results in greater clarity than verbal instruction. Written communication is necessary for managers when reinforcing their message across the team. Why are Meeting and Agreement Recaps Important? Meeting and agreement recaps are a powerful way to establish credibility and keep teams accountable for project deliverables. When done correctly, this simple strategy will reinforce communication, eliminate misunderstandings or confusion, and increase the likelihood of achieving desirable results. If you are conducting a project meeting, there is a reasonable probability that some decisions are made during that time, including assigning certain duties to different team members. Getting these decisions in writing and sending a copy of those agreements to everyone in attendance helps achieve the following: Ensures accountability and ensures that progress is not lost During a business meeting, someone may volunteer to do something they may forget later. The same is true for decisions: when things are being decided, they can easily be forgotten since this may have just been one of many meetings—documenting these decisions or actions in writing as a permanent means of communication, makes useful where record maintenance is required. (Ever hear of "meeting minutes"?) Moreover, a written record eliminates uncertainty on who is responsible for what and how the project should advance. Most importantly, it allows both the project team and manager to easily keep track of progress relative to goals and know who is responsible for each contribution. Offers alignment and Transparency By writing out the final decisions and forwarding them to the relevant parties, you can ensure that everyone (even the absentees) has visibility into the action items, next steps, and important decisions. Meeting recaps also give team members a clear direction on where the project is headed and how to move forward with it. This comes in handy when a stakeholder or team member does something that doesn't align with the agreements. You can easily discuss the decision by reviewing the written recap. Encourages employee engagement and gives due credit Revisiting the written recap can help managers see which team members achieved what they had initially promised. The results can then be compared, and credit can be given where due. This helps increase motivation and employee engagement, thereby increasing productivity. Eliminates Confusion Recapping meetings and agreements helps create a forum where anyone can raise questions or concerns about the decisions. This helps clear any confusion on the spot and prevents future problems from materializing. How to Create an Effective Agreement Recap? Take notes of expectations you and your team members have from the project and list them in a precise bullet-pointed manner. Email these pointers to the relevant member(s), and highlight the deadline (if you have any). Send a reminder periodically so they can stay on top of their duties. Summing Up It is more than helpful to back up verbal agreements during meetings with written agreements... doing this may just be one of the simplest and most effective actions a manager can take.  Nick Anderson has been a student of leadership for 30 years beginning the day he received a novel “Leadership Award” from his U-12 soccer coach. During his 25-year career in banking Anderson led teams through mergers, acquisitions, bank failure, recessions and rapid growth while successfully managing the throes and pitfalls of being a middle manager. As a community volunteer Anderson led nonprofit organizations through periods of significant change as a board member, treasurer, vice president and board chair. Learn more at Chosen-Leader.com.
 As a leader, you have to make many difficult decisions for your organization and take responsibility for the results. Choice refers to the deliberate act of doing or thinking one thing above another. The leader's choices and decisions carry the additional burden of impacting employees’ careers in the long run, in addition to their own. One decision might hinder or promote career development. Morals and standards play a significant role in our judgments and choices. While the past cannot be changed, we can learn from our mistakes. Take advantage of the present as a gift, and every choice you have ever made will form the basis of your future. Avoid regrets by making the correct decisions today. You have the freedom to do or be anything you wish. How A Manager’s Choice Can Change the Destiny of Employees The decisions you make for your workforce impact myriad outcomes. The law of cause and effect governs what happens after we make a decision and while many see the first-order effects, many often fail to observe the second and third-order effects of a decision. A bad decision always has an unfavorable outcome, somewhere down the line. We must be willing to make hard decisions if we want to enjoy the best possible results of our endeavors. Once we take ownership of how we use our freedom of choice, we can change whatever behaviors or mindsets are required to cultivate our own leadership and drive. How Does Making Good Choices Help Managers? People are constantly making decisions; some are simple and easy to make. However, as a manager, it is simple to feel uncertain and cautious while making big decisions. Learning techniques for making wise choices in challenging or pressured situations is crucial. Indecision alone may negatively affect how you feel. Even if you cannot predict how something will turn out before you decide, find solace in the truth that you have made the most informed decision available at the time - and you can always choose another, better way should one be revealed. Ways to Make Good Choices as a Manager
Summing Up
 Nick Anderson has been a student of leadership for 30 years beginning the day he received a novel “Leadership Award” from his U-12 soccer coach. During his 25-year career in banking Anderson led teams through mergers, acquisitions, bank failure, recessions and rapid growth while successfully managing the throes and pitfalls of being a middle manager. As a community volunteer Anderson led nonprofit organizations through periods of significant change as a board member, treasurer, vice president and board chair. Learn more at Chosen-Leader.com.
 Whether its adopting AI or shoring up environment, sustainability, and governance (ESG) practices, Jim DuBois sees an opportunity to look at changes not as chores or responsibilities, but as real value propositions for enterprise organizations. Read more at InformationWeek.com.
See Jim's book on Amazon.
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