Unlearning, Prioritizing, and Building Momentum: Key Takeaways from Q1

Hey friends,

If I had to sum up Q1 in one word, it’d be unlearning.

I used to think success meant saying yes to everything, working the hardest, and being the go-to person for all things. But this quarter, I learned that success is about working smarter, focusing on what moves the needle and having the courage to say no.

Here are three lessons I’m taking into Q2:

🎯 Lesson 1: Prioritization = Saying No, Not Just Saying Yes

It’s easy to add things to your plate. It’s harder to take things off.

This quarter, I started making “no” my default—and it’s been a game-changer. Instead of overcommitting, I asked: Does this align with my actual goals?

📌 Where to Start:
✅ Ask: If I say yes to this, what am I saying no to?
✅ Define your top 3 priorities, if it doesn’t fit, let it go (at least for right now).
✅ Set boundaries early instead of backtracking later.

Try this ➡️ Before taking on something new, gut-check: Will this get me closer to my goals, or just keep me and the team busy?

🔗 Related Read: The product management skill no one talks about (but changes everything)

🚀 Lesson 2: Small Wins Build the Biggest Momentum

I used to think buy-in came from pitching an amazing vision. But the best way to get people on board? Show, don’t tell.

This quarter, I focused on fast, low-risk experiments—tiny wins that built confidence and momentum. Instead of debating, we tested. Instead of planning forever, we shipped.

📌 Where to Start:
✅ Launch a quick prototype instead of a full plan.
✅ Test a low-risk version before committing resources.
✅ Prioritize action over endless discussions.

💡 Pro Tip: If your team is hesitant, ask: What’s the smallest thing we could ship next week to prove this is worth doing?

🔗 Related Read: Lenny’s favorite decision-making frameworks

🔍 Lesson 3: Inspiration Comes from Unexpected Places

Spending time at the Monday Girl Summit reminded me: Some of the best career insights come from outside your usual bubble.

Stepping outside my day-to-day gave me fresh ideas, new connections, and a renewed sense of purpose.

📌 Where to Start:
✅ Grab coffee with someone outside your industry.
✅ Read/watch content from different fields.
✅ Look for inspiration beyond your usual sources.

Mini Challenge ➡️ This week, reach out to one person you admire from a different department but don’t usually talk to. What could you learn from them?

Not sure how to start those conversations → here’s a LinkedIn outreach template to help.

💡 Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, Q2 is a fresh start. Focus on what actually matters, experiment your way forward, and seek inspiration beyond the usual places.

What’s one thing you’re carrying forward from Q1?
Reply and let me know! I read every response!

Until next time,
Stefanie