The Courage to Say No
One of the core tenets of Essentialism is the courage to say no to non-essential tasks and opportunities, even when they seem appealing. McKeown shares personal struggles and choices, stating, 'Living fully as an Essentialist isn’t always easy. In many ways, I still struggle with it myself.' He highlights that saying no becomes easier over time and that the discomfort of turning down non-essential tasks is minor compared to the clarity and freedom it brings. This disciplined approach helps us invest our time and energy into what truly matters, fostering a life of impact and fulfillment.