Top performers know that saying "yes" to collaboration requests means saying "no" to other things. 

• Identify the areas where you are best equipped to really add value.
• Boundaries. Be clear with managers and team members about your working hours and stick to them.
• Time blocking. Block off time on your calendar for focused work and resist responding to non-urgent messages during those hours.
• Agenda setting: Ensure you have a clear agenda for every meeting and that you have a hard stop at the end.
• Schedule regular standing meetings and encourage everyone to keep their questions for this time.

From when we were young, we learned that helping others is a virtue. But when we entered the business world, we soon discovered that being a helper at the office comes at a cost. 

High performers are often drawn away from their own work to help other employ...