---
title: The qualified Yes
date: "2006-01-08T12:00:00Z"
categories:
  - links
wp_id: 435
description: I manage project requests by offering a 'qualified yes,' where I commit to specific hours or sessions rather than open-ended tasks. This helps set clear boundaries, values my time, and avoids the burden of unintentional long-term management.
keywords: [qualified yes, time management, boundaries, project scoping, productivity, commitment management]
---

[The qualified Yes](http://www.43folders.com/2006/01/06/modest-change-qualified-yes/). Somewhere between saying "no" to a new project or taking on something in an open-ended type of way, be clear from the start on what you can commit in concrete terms.

> So, what used to be "Sure, I'll do your web site" is now more often "Sure, I'll give you 10 hours and 3 calls over the next month to use however you want." If nothing else, it helps everyone understand that time is a precious commodity, but it also gets me out of being the de facto manager for every aspect of a project I touch.