When I got home early that evening, I helped my son build a paper plane for his school project. He looked at me and said, “You seem lighter today.” For the first time in a while, I felt it too—success didn’t feel heavy anymore. It felt earned, meaningful, and peaceful.

Moral of the story: Saying no to what doesn’t align with your values can lead you toward opportunities built just for you. Sometimes, turning down the wrong door is what helps the right one open.