Noise

Chapter 13Saying No to Noise

There’s a famous saying, “There is no ‘I’ in ‘team.’” Now think about the word “noise.” There’s not only an “I” in it, but also an “n” and an “o.”

Is this pure coincidence or a sign? You decide.

“No” is a powerful little word. It can stop bad decisions, sudden impulses, unwanted offers, and debilitating tendencies. It is as unambiguous as it is direct.

Hear its power…

• No, thank you!
• No more for me
• No money in the account
• No time on the clock
• No excuses
• No clue
• No ifs, ands, or buts
• No pain, no gain

Just Say No

In the late 1980s, First Lady Nancy Reagan led the fight against drug addiction with her public plea to “Just Say No” to drugs. The point was clear and unwavering as a primary weapon in her fight against illegal narcotics, especially to youths.

She wanted to get current and future drug abusers to say the little word no to combat a growing epidemic of substance abuse. The catchphrase of her campaign was both straightforward and bold in its logic. The simple “just say no” message quickly spread through the culture in the days before social media.

In our widespread battle against the noise that’s both inside and all around us, the same phrase can be applied as a solution. Say no more often and drown out the noise in your life.

The Power of Self-Mastery

Too simple?

Not really. There is power in self-mastery. As old-school as it might sound, we have the power within us to choose what to tune out and when to tune in.

So, even though the “Just ...