When you say yes to something, you say no to something else…
Chris Ducker
I help entrepreneurs grow their income and impact - without the burnout! Author, The Long Haul Leader (Sept '25)
March 21st, 2025
The other day I was out on one of my nature walks when I spotted a Gray Wagtail for the first time. It was a great moment!
I've been a nature lover my whole life, but it's only been over the last few years, as I've focused on recovering from full-on adrenal burnout (I'm still recovering), that I've genuinely started to make time to be in, and surrounded by nature regularly throughout the week.
I heard this bird first, before seeing it. So I got my phone out and using an app I have to identifies birds from their song, I was able to discover what it looked like. I soon scoped it out, perched on a branch looking over the river I was standing next to.
As I used my binoculars to view this new 'lifer' (a term bird watchers, or 'birders' use to describe a bird that they see in the wild for the first time) I was cap`tivated by it's striking bright colors and noisy song. I sensed a state of calm and relaxation overtake me.
This is exactly why I make the time to be out in nature. To feel exactly that.
But, something else occurred to me. If I hadn't of made the time to get in my car and drive to the nature reserve I was on, I probably wouldn't have seen that bird for a long, long time. Maybe ever.
I said YES to creating this opportunity by taking care of ME… while at the same time, saying NO to being stuck behind my desk.
And guess what? My business didn't explode. There were no fires to put out when I got back a couple of hours later. And I returned rejuvenated and full of energy for the rest of the afternoon and 3 back-to-back coaching calls.
So, I'd like to pose a simple question to you this week…
What have you been saying YES to recently? And at the same time…. saying NO to?
The answer to this question will clearly show you what your priorities are.
Food for thought.
New Content
Most entrepreneurs (especially those in midlife!) are great at dreaming big and setting ambitious goals. But when it comes to staying on track, things often fall apart.
Without a clear system to regularly check in and measure progress, those big ideas can quickly get lost in the day-to-day grind. The truth is, setting goals is just the first step.
The real magic happens when you create a process to stay aligned, adapt when needed, and keep moving forward with purpose.
YOUTUBE VIDEO: The Quarterly Audit You Never Knew You Needed
In my latest video, I’m diving into the power of hitting pause every 90 days to check in, reflect, and realign. This simple yet powerful process has helped me (and my clients!) stay focused, spot hidden opportunities, and avoid burnout.
Here's a sneak peek of what you'll learn:
Watch the video and be sure to comment with your takeaways!
Weekly Resource
My very good friend, Lewis Howes just published his fourth book earlier this week, Make Money Easy: Create Financial Freedom and Live a Richer Life.
I got my hands on a copy a couple of weeks ago and finished it in two days — it’s that good!!!
Financial freedom is one of those things we all dream about, but let’s be honest… sometimes it feels impossible, right? The thing is, it’s not. With the right mindset and a clear game plan, it’s absolutely within reach, and Lewis breaks it all down for you step by step.
What I love most about this book is that it doesn’t just focus on making more money. It’s about creating a life where money works for you, so you can focus on what truly matters.
Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or looking to level up, Lewis shows you exactly how to make that shift. Get your copy now!
Quick reminder… the waitlist page for my next book (linked to at the top of this email) is now open and you can jump on it quickly by simply clicking this link.
Writing this book hasn't been easy. I share a lot of personal struggle, as well as a lot of great strategy to help others escape the 'hustle culture' and non-stop work environment that many of us have (and maybe still are) facing in our work.
It would mean a lot to me if you showed your support by hopping on the list and, when the time comes, picking up a copy (there will be some epic pre-order bonuses up for grabs, too!).
Thank you, and enjoy your weekend. Maybe try getting out into nature… if you do, send me a photo on Instagram of where you are and what sights and sounds you're enjoying.
All my best,
P.S. When you’re ready, here are a few ways we can work together:
1. Explore my books: Dive into my bestselling books, Virtual Freedom and Rise of the Youpreneur to learn the art of delegation and how to use it to your advantage, as well as practical strategies to grow your business, build credibility and position yourself as the go-to leader in your industry.
2. Listen to the Youpreneur podcast: With over 500 episodes to binge-listen to, this is where we share inspiring stories, proven strategies and expert advice for entrepreneurs building a business around their expertise.
3. Check out my YouTube channel: One of my goals this year is to get back into consistent video content creation, and I'd really appreciate it if you could watch, like and subscribe to the channel if you aren't already! If you have any specific topics you'd like me to cover in future videos, hit reply and let me know.
4. Apply for my 'inner circle' Round Table Mastermind: If you're a business owner that needs some strategic support (who doesn't, right?!) to scale to 6, multiple 6, or even 7+ figures with more ease and fun, this mastermind is for you. Join a close-knit community of entrepreneurial leaders committed to growing their businesses sustainably while aligning with their personal and professional goals.
I mentor online business founders scaling from six to seven (sometimes eight) figures.
1 天前Glad you are looking after yourself Chris. As a daily surfer I know the healing power of nature. ????