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The Hidden Cost of Every “Yes” in Business

Published 4 months ago • 1 min read

There is a cost to saying yes.

Every opportunity comes with an invisible price tag—one we rarely consider. In business, more often seems better. But is it?

New opportunities can trigger “Shiny Object Syndrome,” distracting you from your core objectives.

The downside?

  • You avoid facing reality
  • You forget long-term goals
  • You ignore ongoing progress

Chasing the new can make you overlook what’s already working and blind you to potential risks.

So, how do you avoid the trap?

Ask yourself: “If I say yes, what will I have to say no to?”

This question reveals second-order effects:

  • What are the potential downsides?
  • Does this align with my long-term goals?
  • What must I deprioritise?

These aren’t easy questions.

As a leader, saying no is hard, but knowing the cost of opportunity is essential.

There is, of course, another path: do nothing.

But indecision has its own price.

Thanks for Reading,

Darren

Glan Menai, Lon Isaf, Morfa Nefyn, Pwllheli, LL53 6BW
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Decision Mastery Insights

by Darren Matthews

Struggling with complex decisions? Every Thursday, join 700+ leaders and discover actionable frameworks and data-driven strategies to help you lead with confidence.

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