What is C2D? Is that a new Chemical compound?
No, many say it means ‘Courage To Decline’
It takes exemplary courage to say “No” particularly when the chips are down.
‘Job loss’, ‘Pink slip’, ‘Golden handshake’, ‘Manpower rationalization’ etc. are common terms now. And, amidst such insecure corporate environs, it comes as no surprise that there’s an invisible mad race noticed to keep one ahead of the others.
Lure of lucre? Lure of faux glitter? Lure of devious accolades that would vanish in a flash? Lure of tin medals that are open for sale? Lure of a bounty not commensurate with one’s profile? Maybe some or maybe all of these are on offer yet there are some around us bestowed with steely resolve who audaciously decide to look the other way when confronted with such a dilemma.
There could be occasions when you come across a shady offering that tests the ingrained moral values deep within – you take a stand and boldly turn it down.
Here’s a laundry list that has stood the test of time helping many to decide when to turn down a dubious offer:
Plate full : One needs to constantly gauge the professional commitments in hand before tendering acceptance or refusal. A fine work-life balance is paramount and is non-negotiable. One works to live and not the other way around. Accept a challenge only if you are fully convinced to do justice to it and is genuine. Do not overburden yourself with tasks only to give shoddy outputs later. It is better to decline an assignment than to tarnish reputation. Remember personal branding counts and often before you as an individual arrive, your brand does.
Over stretching : Many swear by the dictum of multi-tasking particularly in start-ups where they are expectedly need-driven. Fine but do remember there’s a limit to elasticity before excessive stretching ruptures the cord. Do not add the proverbial last straw on the camel’s back that it collapses under its sheer weight i.e. expectations.
Restrained by principles : Deep-rooted principles are the cornerstones that guide you in case of a dilemma. One strong ‘anchor principle’ of mine has been staying away from competitors within the same industry. On multiple occasions have closed the door on overt attempts to get swayed by companies jostling in the same domain. Trading your success story for a few zeros more to your salary from the one you despised till the other day, is not kosher.
Humanly unattainable : There may come situations that on the face of it you instantly know is better to let go e.g. For executing these 3 tasks – Win Wimbledon, Hit 6 sixes in an over, and Scale Mt Everest in 3 weeks – you are offered a billion. Thanks, but no thanks!
What is the point when you know such ‘challenges’ are raw cruel jokes?
No to temptations : Drawn by momentary inducements people fall for them, to regret immensely later. Ample examples are there where we see star performers falling to temptations only to flunk miserably, in no time.
Fake bravados : Noticed, swayed by peer pressure or because of high demand quotient people agree and take assignments only to fail with their commitments. Deadlines missed; silly excuses offered. Do not tread that path instead refuse upfront.
It is suggested to learn the art of not saying ‘Yes’ under duress. Many times, it becomes difficult to reverse such commitments. There is a popular adage in the corporate world – ‘Never Overpromise and Underdeliver’.
‘Red Flag’ proposals : Often proposals come that have a ‘red flag’ attached, inherently. Have seen year after year folks offering hundreds of awards, each with a price tag dangling. Once, an agency even offered a discount coupon to redeem for agreeing to ‘buy’ their award within 3 days. No wonder people forget such awards as soon as they are conferred. On the flip side, this practice of buying awards has sadly devalued the whole noble gesture of celebrating each other’s success. Learn to say a loud and clear ‘No’ to any such solicitations.
We all learn from mistakes and gain strength. Falling to temptations is one where even seasoned professionals have erred. Better is to steel oneself and learn to decline offers that do not add value in the long run. Be your best judge – after all, no one knows the person in the mirror better than yourself.
(Views expressed here are personal)
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