You know that email.
The one that asks, “Can we hop on a quick call?” or “Let’s meet to discuss this further.”
The last thing you need? Another meeting clogging up your busy calendar.
But what do you do? You say yes and add it to the schedule.
I get it. I used to feel the pressure to say “yes” to every single meeting request.
Now, as a recovering say-yes-er, I know that guarding your calendar is key to protecting your productivity (and sanity).
There’s a smarter way to handle these requests. Here’s how.
The Problem
Unnecessary meetings eat up your day, keeping you from focusing on revenue-producing tasks.
The truth is, most issues can be resolved without scheduling yet another Zoom call or in-person meeting.
It’s time to start with a different approach.
The Big Small Thing
Here are 3 scripts you can use to explore alternatives before automatically saying yes to a meeting.
(These tips are adapted from my dear friend and Google’s Productivity Expert, Laura Mae Martin, which she talks about in her book, Uptime.)
1. “Let’s give email a shot first.” (aka Let’s Drink to Async!)
“Hi [Name], I’d love to help! Can we start by collaborating via email to get a few ideas down? If we need more time after that, I’m happy to explore meeting options.”
Why it works: You’re offering to engage, but in a more efficient way. Most of the time, a few async emails will resolve the issue, and that can often happen in 3 minutes, not 30.
2. “I’m heads-down on a project. Can we revisit this next week?” (aka The Power Postpone)
“Hi [Name], I’m deep into a project this week, but I’d be happy to circle back and discuss this in detail next week. Does that work?”
Why it works: You’re not saying no—you’re just postponing. It buys you time and filters out the not-so-urgent requests. And spoiler alert: they often never come back.
3. “Can you send me an agenda first?” (The Agenda Avenger)
“Hi [Name], happy to explore this further. Could you send over a quick agenda first, so I can see where I can add value?”
Why it works: This weeds out unnecessary meetings by ensuring there’s a clear purpose.
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How This Helps You Chase What You Want
When you stop saying yes to every meeting, you reclaim your time and focus on what truly matters.
Plus, you maintain control of your calendar while still being responsive and helpful.
These 3 scripts will save you time, energy, and your sanity.
Try them and let me know what happens.
