9. Learn to Say No

Mastering the art of saying no is crucial for maintaining focus on top priorities and preventing burnout. High performers, such as Warren Buffett, attribute much of their success to declining non-essential meetings and projects, allowing them to concentrate on what truly matters.
Setting boundaries protects your time and energy, enabling deeper work and better results. Psychological research, including studies summarized by Psychology Today, shows that assertiveness in declining requests leads to reduced stress and greater satisfaction, making it an indispensable productivity skill.