The hardest to learn was the least complicated
On saying no
Hey Omni!
I’ve been reading Ryan Holiday’s book Discipline is Destiny, which explores the power of discipline in shaping a meaningful life. One idea from the book that I’ve been exploring is “opportunity cost” - the recognition that saying yes to one thing means saying no to something else. This concept resonates deeply in music production, where our decisions about time, energy, and focus determine the final product. Every choice we make in the studio comes with a trade-off, and understanding this can lead to better music and a more fulfilling creative process.
Take a moment to think about how many tracks you’ve added to a song just because you could. It’s tempting to layer sounds endlessly, but more isn’t always better. Too many elements can muddy the mix and overwhelm the listener. Instead, ask yourself: what does this track add? Stripping things down to the essentials often makes a song stronger and leaves more time to refine what really matters. (Need to practice? Don’t forget this month’s Control Room challenge!)
Time management is another area where opportunity cost shows up. An unplanned session might feel creative, but it often leads to wasted hours and unfinished ideas. On the other hand, having a clear plan - like dedicating specific time blocks to recording, editing, or mixing - helps you stay focused and productive. It’s not about working longer hours; it’s about spending your time on the tasks that move the project forward.
Finally, think about who you choose to work with and the projects you accept. Every collaboration takes time and energy, so it’s important to align with people who share your vision and values. Saying no to a project that doesn’t excite you creates space for the opportunities that do. The best partnerships elevate your music and make the process more enjoyable.
At the end of the day, opportunity cost isn’t just about time - it’s about quality. Every choice you make shapes your music and your creative journey. By focusing on what truly matters, you can create work that reflects your vision and aligns with your goals. So the next time you’re in the studio, remember: discipline isn’t just about self-control; it’s about choosing the path that leads to your best work.
Love, Lisa
p.s. Recognize the lyrics from the blog title? Then you might enjoy this interview.
Recommended Resources
The Ultimate Guide to Saying No by Marie Forleo
The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp
The 5 AM Club: Own Your Morning, Elevate Your Life by Robin Sharma
Call and Response
What creative habits may be holding you back from producing quality work? What can you say “no” to this year to help you achieve your goals?
Let us know in the comments and be sure to interact with other folks who comment, you never know where you’ll meet your next collaborator!
Very interesting stuff, and great interview on TapeOp!! I think this year I need to say "no" to conforming for me to get more stuff done and released. I've tried so many different methods of organization and they just never work the way I want them to. So I think this year I'll put in the effort to figure out what works for me specifically without worrying about what works for other people.
I loooove this !