How Saying “No” Made Life More Fulfilling

In January 2025, I sat on the beach in Jamaica with my friend Emily (shout out to EJ Designs!) doing something we’ve done for years: writing out our annual goals in a warm and beautiful setting. I like to think that our process goes a little deeper than most.

Years ago, I learned from my friend Ed Staub and his book Life of Balance vs. Imbalance that a balanced life requires intention across eight core areas: Physical, Family, Career, Mental, Financial, Social, Spiritual, and Emotional. He calls this the “Balance Wheel,” and we use it to set goals in each area.

As I reviewed my goals for 2025, one thing became clear: I didn’t want more, I wanted less. Less hustle. Less burnout. More time for my family, my faith, and my own well-being.

Throughout my adult life, my priorities have always been God, family, and work, in that order. When I launched Vast Strategies, I made a commitment to myself that those priorities would remain unchanged. However, as the business grew over the past years, I noticed myself slipping. So this January, I made some intentional changes and realigned myself to get my three main priorities back in order.

More Time for What Matters

That extra margin in my schedule created space for something even more meaningful: people.

This summer, I’ve been studying the Bible weekly and talking about Jesus with two friends who are ready to grow in their faith. That time would’ve been impossible if I’d kept the same pace as last year. I’ve also had time to help my church plan events, take more vacations, and be fully present with my husband and kids. Life feels beautifully full and not overwhelming.

A Healthier Human Inside and Out

One of my personal goals last year was to prioritize my health. I committed to going to the gym at least two times per week, eating better, and creating more time for self-care. I hired a personal trainer, Megan Conrad, who also has now become a good friend. Additionally, I’m down almost 35 pounds. That being said, I try not to focus only on the number on the scale. I'm more concerned about becoming stronger, feeling good about myself, and making healthier choices. I'm able to create time for myself in the midst of work and motherhood.

And again, none of this would’ve been possible if I hadn’t made the intentional decision to create balance.

The Power of a “Stop Doing” List

One of the best pieces of business advice I’ve ever received came from my Sandler Trainer and friend, Kate Kohler. She told me, “Everyone has a to-do list. But what you really need is a stop-doing list.”

So every year, in addition to my goal writing session with Emily, I also write a list of things I’m going to stop doing. All the habits, patterns, or even relationships that drain me or take me off course, I was committed to stopping.

My list:

• Stop saying yes to make people happy

• Stop working with clients or spending time with people who don’t respect my time, values or who don't bring me joy

• Stop skipping workouts or time with Jesus

• Stop overbooking my calendar just because someone wants to “pick my brain and have coffee”

• Stop hitting the snooze button (I'm still working on that one, but it's getting better)

This list now makes room for what actually matters: spending more time with family and friends, working with people I enjoy, and leading others to Christ.

Faith, Values, and the Work We Do

Not everyone I work or partner with shares the same faith I do. Regardless of our beliefs, everyone I choose to collaborate with shares the same foundational principles: respect, humility, honesty, and a strong work ethic.

I personally believe that when we’re obedient to God and walk in step with Him, He blesses our work. I am living proof of that.

At Vast Strategies, we serve people from all backgrounds and all beliefs. But if you’re ever curious about Jesus, or if you want to talk about creating a healthier rhythm in life and business, I’d love to connect with you!

Whether you’re looking to grow your business through branding, marketing, or sales training, or you want to have an honest conversation about burnout, balance, or faith, my door is always open.