Know when to say NO

#1 · June 3, 2025, 10:03 pm

Quote from Brother Sjambok on June 3, 2025, 10:03 pm
I have been an entrepreneur since I was 18 years old. I believe it is in ones DNA. I don't believe you can necessarily make an entrepreneur, it is somehow part of the fiber of your being, and you know it.

Over the years, I have made some egregious business decisions, with the right intention. Sounds odd. But when you're "old-school" you do things differently. Like a handshake is a deal. Your word is your bond. In todays climate these principles do not hold water. Everyone is out for the best deal, at all costs. Integrity counts for very little. Honesty is shunned, and selfishness reigns supreme.

As a believer in Christ, there's something to be said about "going with your gut", listening to that still small voice in your chest, and taking counsel from your peers.

I have discovered over the years, and by virtue of attending the school of hard knocks, that having the courage to know when to say NO is a principle that will stand you in good stead.

If at any point in your entrepreneurial journey you are presented with what appears to be the deal of the century, an unbelievable payday, or opportunity that simply appears to be too good to be true - be cautious, seek counsel, don't run into an opportunity that you have not fully processed due diligence, examine all the pros and cons and ask yourself "if I say yes, and go down this path - would the Lord approve?".

As difficult as it may be, have the boldness to stand firm, and say NO if you sense any red flags, don't let fear and greed overturn your integrity for the sake of closing a sale, making a deal or getting into something that will potentially squeeze the life out of you down the road.

Surround yourself with like-minded people, perhaps that have even been down a similar road before you, and paid a hefty price - take their advice and you'll come through stronger for it and position yourself to make better decisions, that will prosper you and the hard work of your hands, even if there's some pain and suffering along the way - it will be worth it!

I have been an entrepreneur since I was 18 years old. I believe it is in ones DNA. I don't believe you can necessarily make an entrepreneur, it is somehow part of the fiber of your being, and you know it.

Over the years, I have made some egregious business decisions, with the right intention. Sounds odd. But when you're "old-school" you do things differently. Like a handshake is a deal. Your word is your bond. In todays climate these principles do not hold water. Everyone is out for the best deal, at all costs. Integrity counts for very little. Honesty is shunned, and selfishness reigns supreme.

As a believer in Christ, there's something to be said about "going with your gut", listening to that still small voice in your chest, and taking counsel from your peers.

I have discovered over the years, and by virtue of attending the school of hard knocks, that having the courage to know when to say NO is a principle that will stand you in good stead.

If at any point in your entrepreneurial journey you are presented with what appears to be the deal of the century, an unbelievable payday, or opportunity that simply appears to be too good to be true - be cautious, seek counsel, don't run into an opportunity that you have not fully processed due diligence, examine all the pros and cons and ask yourself "if I say yes, and go down this path - would the Lord approve?".

As difficult as it may be, have the boldness to stand firm, and say NO if you sense any red flags, don't let fear and greed overturn your integrity for the sake of closing a sale, making a deal or getting into something that will potentially squeeze the life out of you down the road.

Surround yourself with like-minded people, perhaps that have even been down a similar road before you, and paid a hefty price - take their advice and you'll come through stronger for it and position yourself to make better decisions, that will prosper you and the hard work of your hands, even if there's some pain and suffering along the way - it will be worth it!