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Soar! A Monthly Ejournal
By Renée Phillips, The Artrepreneur Coach The title Soar! was inspired by Helen Keller's empowering quote: "One cannot consent to creep when one has an impulse to soar." July 2008  Just Say No! We are often told in order to be successful we need to be more affirmative, receptive, willing, eager to please, and to accept offers, opportunities and invitations. So, it is no surprise that we are on automatic pilot when it comes to saying Yes! to most requests. Like everything in life attaining a healthy balance is essential -- which includes learning the art of saying 'No." We often suffer harmful consequences by being overly agreeable. Our affirmative responses may lead to becoming burdened with too many commitments or simply unpleasant ones, which result in self-sabotage and self-sacrifice. We need to set boundaries and adhere to them. If you suffer from an overwilling "Yes!" mentality try spending a day observing your behavior and look for opportunities to try saying No! more frequently. Say No! to toxic art materials. It is important to educate yourself about safety issues regarding art materials and avoid damaging your health. You should also avoid toxic relationships, both professionally and personally. And, I'm sure I don't need to say No! to substance abuse. Say No! to interruptions in your studio. Practice discipline and time management skills and let others know you need to keep to a schedule in order to meet important production deadlines. Say No! to undesirable career moves. For example, not all opportunities to exhibit your work are beneficial. You can learn to reject undesireable offers diplomatically. Say No! to inferior workmanship from your professional service providers such as art photographers and art photography services, website host and designers, printers, art material suppliers, framers and studio assistants. The important lesson to remember is to take as much time as you need to consider the offer or request that is presented to you. Often the few moments or even days or weeks you take to weigh the advantages and disadvantages will save you many headaches and regrets. And, when you give yourself permission to say No! brush away any feelings of guilt should they arise. Renée is known as The Artrepreneur Coach ™. She helps her clients identify their greatest strengths and obstacles and attain their dreams through discussion, action steps and motivation. Learn more.
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