7 Amazing Things That Happen When You Stop Worrying About Being Nice When you prioritize your goals rather than someone else's, an incredible thing happens: You actually accomplish them.

By Tami Brehse

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Shutterstock

It's 6 p.m. on a Friday. You're about to head out the door, anxious to get home after a long week. Suddenly, an email pops into your inbox. It's a client, asking if you have time to proofread a 27-page document. What's your next move?

If you're like I was, you let out a sigh, drop your bag and sit back down at your computer.

Related: 7 Ways to Refocus on What's Truly Important

But why?

Because you feel obligated? Because it's urgent and can't wait until Monday ($10 says the answer is no)? Or is it because it's the "nice" thing to do?

There's nothing wrong with being a kind person. Kindness means considering the feelings of others, caring for sick family members and being there for friends during tough times. But I've come to realize that being "nice" in business is a different beast entirely, and until recently, I allowed the pursuit of it to seriously stand in my way.

When you stop worrying about being nice and start putting your needs first, incredible things can happen for your career.

1. People start to respect your time.

It's the basic principle behind the scarcity value -- people value something more when it's less available. The same goes for your time. When you stop making yourself available at all hours, people respect the time they do have with you more.

Set boundaries for when you are and are not available to clients -- and stick to them.

2. You make more money.

If I had a nickel for every time I avoided asking for more money, it would be highly ironic, because I'd make a lot of that money back in nickel form.

It's not rude to ask for what you're worth.

I repeat: it's not rude to ask for what you're worth.

When you're worried about being too presumptuous or appearing greedy, you don't ask for more money. The majority of the time, you can't make more money without asking for it.

Figure out what you're worth, put together a strong case, and ask for the raise.

Related: How to Ask for a Raise -- and Get It

3. You work on more interesting projects.

When you're worried about being nice, you say "yes" to things purely out of obligation.

When you start saying "no" to projects that don't interest you, you free up time for those that do -- and you'll do better work as a result.

4. You have more time for things that matter.

Oh, the time suck that comes from always saying "yes!"

When you stop being nice and start weeding out those networking events, PTA bake sales and baby showers for your third cousin once removed, you'll find you have more time (and energy!) for the activities that are truly important to you.

5. You attract the right kind of clients.

We all want clients that who respectful, appreciative and easy to communicate with. When you find a great client, it's natural to want to do a good job.

But when you set a precedent for bending over backwards for a specific account, that kind of behavior starts to become expected as the norm.

Set yourself up for a healthy client relationship from the start by clearly communicating your work process: times you work, times you disconnect, the process for changes and approvals, etc. When you set clear boundaries before a contract begins, you'll be more likely to end up working with clients who respect them.

6. You feel more in control of your life.

It's true what they say: You have to look out for yourself, because no one else is going to do it for you.

When you stop being nice and start making your time, career and interests a priority, you'll feel empowered to take even more proactive steps in the direction of your goals.

Related: 5 Reasons Your Spouse Hates Your Business

7. You accomplish your goals faster.

When you prioritize your goals rather than someone else's, an incredible thing happens: You actually accomplish them, and on a shorter timeline to boot.

Not checking emails after 5 p.m. Taking your kids on a week-long vacation. Launching the business you've been dreaming of. How could your life change if you stopped worrying about "being nice?"

Tami Brehse

Freelance marketing consultant

Tami Brehse is a freelance marketing consultant who works with small businesses. Follow her blog about social media, public relations and all things marketing at TamiBrehse.com/blog

Editor's Pick

Related Topics

Business News

'I Am Blessed': Woman Finds $100,000 Forgotten Powerball Ticket While 'Going Through Papers'

The 75-year-old retiree from Virginia plans to deposit the money directly to her bank account.

Business News

Dads Who Do This Simple Activity With Their Kids for 10 Minutes a Day Are More Likely to Raise High Achievers

The straightforward approach can give children an advantage over their peers.

Business News

Travis Kelce Jersey Sales Soar 400%, Thanks to Taylor Swift

The pair nearly broke the internet on Sunday after Swift was seen cheering for the NFL tight end inside at Arrowhead Stadium.

Business News

'Cash Flow King' Podcast Host Slammed With Charges in $11 Million Ponzi Scheme

The SEC alleges that Matthew Motil "fraudulently targeted investors."

Business News

Costco Is Now Offering an Additional Exclusive Perk to Members in All 50 States

Members can now access discounted outpatient medical care through a partnership with healthcare startup Sesame.

Starting a Business

How To Grow Your Startup With Rapid Experimentation

Lessons from a self-funded startup that grew through rapid experimentation.