When you’re in a leadership position, it’s easy to get spread too thin. It seems like there’s always something that needs your attention—an email to answer, a phone call to return, a meeting to attend—and the demands can feel endless.

Association Success spoke to pros in the association community about important career advice they have received that still resonates today. You may be surprised to hear that many responded with some version of “learn to say ‘no.’“

“If we could learn how best to say ‘no’ in the face of time constraints and discuss honestly what tasks, requests, or routines could be eliminated for more effective time management, the issue of time would become, perhaps, less overwhelming,” writes Lucie Robathan.

How does this advice apply to associations as a whole? “Associations exist for their members and are thus only as successful as they are right for their members’ needs and wants,” says Robathan. “Saying ‘no’ is in fact remaining true to the vision and scope of your organization, and setting expectations … will allow you to deliver the most worthwhile and valuable experience to your membership base.”

Be More Productive

15 necessary habits of productive #eventprofs: https://t.co/aJR6Fl5z5v pic.twitter.com/FqVwcW37xH

— Eventbrite (@eventbrite) August 29, 2017

Event organizing can be stressful. But the more stressed you are, the less productive you may become. Eventbrite shares several smart productivity habits that can help you tackle your day more efficiently.

To start, systematize your work process. “When you have an efficient system for capturing and organizing the information that comes your way, you can stay present in the moment and avoid distractions,” writes Rachel Grate.

Grate also recommends cleaning up your workspace, blocking off time in your calendar to get work done before it’s filled up with meetings, and taking plenty of breaks to keep yourself refreshed.

Other Links of Note

Does your nonprofit have a strong business plan? Capterra’s Nonprofit Technology Blog shares guidance for developing one.

Business travel is being revolutionized. The New York Times looks at some of the startups leading the way.

What time should you send your email newsletter? Venngage digs into the data and offers some suggestions.

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