Sip and Strategize: Turning Down Requests Without Tuning Out Opportunities

In the high-pressure environment of academia, where saying ‘yes’ to committee work, mentoring, and citizenship activities are often expected, faculty may struggle to balance these responsibilities with their own career priorities. This roundtable, part of the “Wine and Whine” series, explores the underappreciated yet transformative power of saying ‘no.’ Designed to address the challenges of managing competing demands, this session will provide participants with a supportive space to share experiences and develop strategies for aligning their professional commitments with personal well-being and career goals.

Through candid and interactive dialogue, participants will examine the impact of overcommitting—particularly in environments that reward individual achievements—and explore practical ways to navigate these pressures. This session directly supports MOBTS’s mission by addressing universal challenges such as avoiding burnout, maintaining motivation, and building sustainable academic careers. By equipping participants with strategies to intentionally say ‘no,’ this workshop encourages practical application in both personal and professional contexts, empowering participants to lead more balanced and fulfilling lives.