This year we're doing something we've never done before. We're planning to say no. 

For the last decade, mindyourmind has primarily relied on project-based work. A few years ago, when we recieved annualized Ministry of Health support to cover about 50% of our costs, we finally had a strong foundation. But that unsureness about making our financial goal for the year has always hung over us. This year, I'm happy to say we've planned ahead, balanced our books and have a plan to complete the twelve projects we have to complete (about 80% by March 31st). 

But that also means we need to say no to last minute projects. And though it's hard to do, I think it's a good thing. 

We want to have quality interactions with people. We want to do the best by the youth we work with. And pushing ourselves to our absolute limits doesn't help. Last year, we had a design studio every week from Feb 1 - March 31. This year, it's looking more like every other week. Still busy, but there's balance for the team here. 

“No is a complete sentence and so often we forget that... early on my journey I found developing the ability to say no expanded my ability to say yes and really mean it.  My early attempts at saying no were often far from graceful but with practice even my no came from a place of love."

- Susan Gregg

So don't be afraid to say no. Sometimes saying no means being able to say yes and mean it.