The Opportunity Cost of Saying Yes

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Not the ego-driven kind. Not the "screw everyone else" kind.

But the kind where you finally stop handing over your energy, time, and talent like it's free samples at Costco.

In a system that profits off your burnout, overgiving is not noble … it's expensive.

As a creatorpreneur, marketer, or founder, your greatest asset isn’t your follower count or content calendar — it’s your capacity.

And if you keep saying yes to everything, you’ll eventually have nothing left to give to what actually matters.

Brands want freebies. Clients want “quick favors.” Audiences want constant access.

But being generous without boundaries kills momentum.

It’s time to protect your creativity like a high-value product, not a vending machine anyone can press.

If you want to build a powerful brand, grow consistently, and create work that actually moves the needle — you’ve got to protect your time, your energy, and your standards like your future depends on it (because it does).

“No” is a full sentence: Stop overexplaining. If it’s not aligned, not well-paid, or not clearly defined — pass. You’re not being rude. You’re running a business.

Opportunity cost is real: This is something Lola Bakare mentioned during our Cannes Lions panel together. Every “yes” to something misaligned is a quiet “no” to rest, better clients, or deep work. Choose wisely.

Selfish ≠ self-absorbed: This is energy management, not ego. You’re not building just for now, you’re building something that lasts. That takes protection.

Selfish entrepreneurs do better work: The best content comes when you’re paid fairly, creatively fulfilled, and not running on fumes. That’s the version of you people want more of.

Less hustle. More power moves.

I’ve had a few readers ask for links to previous posts they missed, so here are a few worth revisiting if you’re focused on monetizing smarter, growing faster, or just creating with more clarity.

If you’re looking for more, watch this podcast episode from The DEPT.