The “hell yes or no” rule
Details:
This is a game-changer for anyone drowning in decisions or constantly overcommitting. The rule is simple but brutally effective:
If it’s not a “Hell yes!” — it’s a no.
Most of us say yes out of guilt, fear of missing out, or habit. A friend invites you to dinner, a colleague pitches a side project, an “opportunity” lands in your inbox — and even if your gut isn’t in it, you agree. Then later, you’re stuck wondering why you feel drained.
Sivers’ rule flips that. You only say yes to the things that genuinely excite you — the projects, events, and commitments that spark curiosity or feel deeply aligned with your goals. Everything else? A polite no.
Here’s how to make it stick:
- Trust your gut. If you don’t feel immediate excitement, that’s a sign.
- Fast-forward mentally. Imagine yourself on the day of the commitment — are you buzzing with energy or wishing you’d said no?
- Default to “no.” If it’s not a clear yes, it’s a no. Simple.
When you apply this filter, your calendar clears, your stress levels drop, and suddenly there’s space for the stuff that really matters. It’s not about doing less — it’s about making room for the things that light you up.
Sources:
Derek Sivers Interview (Full Episode) | The Tim Ferriss Show (Podcast)
By popular demand, this is a follow-up with the amazing Derek Sivers (@sivers)!This episode can be listened to independently of our first popular conversatio...

