Let’s be honest, I am sure you know what I mean. Too may things to do for so many people vying for your time and expertise. You hardly have time because you’re being too accommodating. At the end of the day you look at your “to-do” list and it has actually grown in magnitude. Are you trying to please too may people? Then I have a leadership story for you. Please read on…
What lesson does 'The Old Man, the Boy, and the Donkey' teach about pleasing everyone in leadership?
The story of 'The Old Man, the Boy, and the Donkey' teaches that if you try to please everyone, you might as well kiss your ass goodbye. This fable illustrates the futility of attempting to satisfy all critics, as demonstrated by the old man and the boy's changing actions based on public opinion, ultimately leading to the loss of their donkey. This serves as a powerful metaphor for leadership, highlighting the importance of conviction over universal approval.
Later, they passed some people who remarked, “What a shame! He makes the little boy walk.” They then decided they both would walk.
Soon they passed some more people who shamed them again, “How stupid to walk when they have a decent donkey to ride.” So they both rode the donkey.
Later, they passed some people who shamed them by saying how awful to put such a load on a poor donkey. The boy and the man said the onlookers were probably right, so they decided to carry the donkey. As they crossed the bridge, they lost the grip on the animal, and it fell into the river and drowned.
The moral of the story? If you try to please everyone, you might as well kiss your ass goodbye.
When it comes to Leadership – You can’t please them all
Leadership requires that you learn that you can’t please everyone. Learn to embrace and use the word “NO.” Just make sure it’s not your supervisor. Then again, maybe even your supervisor. They may not know how much work they have already assigned to you. Sound leadership behavior may require you to regularly negotiate your “to-do” list with your supervisor. In addition, remember to set boundaries to protect your coveted time from peers and reports. “The ability to say no is an increasingly rare and valuable skill” according to Carl Richards, The New York Times.
Five effective ways for saying no
Here is a “No” repertoire for your consideration:
- I am flattered that you thought of me but I’m afraid I don’t have the bandwith
- I would very much like to but I’m over-committed
- I am going to pass on this today
- Let me check my calendar and get back to you
- If it’s your boss — politely say, “Yes. What should I de-prioritize?”
So, if you are still in doubt of saying “NO”, remember the story of the old man, the boy and the donkey and the undesirable consequence. Then consider putting a smile on your face because you are now taking back control of your time by saying no. Leadership is understanding that you will never please everyone.
Thank you for reading,
Greg
