The Power of "Yes"

The word "yes" is defined by Merriam-Webster as a function word used to express assent or agreement--but beyond this superficial definition and meaning, what sort of connotations do you think of? Personally, "yes" gives me positive, adventurous, and actionable connotations.

Saying "yes" to someone or something may seem like a casual interaction with little to no impact on our lives, but in the grand scheme of things, one decision can affect the entire trajectory of our lives--the Butterfly Effect theory.

For example, if a friend asks you to go to a music festival with them and you say no, what could you have potentially missed out on? A great time and lifelong memories with your friend? Meeting someone that may end up playing a key role in your professional life? Experiencing a crazy adventure due to unforeseen circumstances? Who knows?

And before you think that I'm teetering on the unhealthy side of FOMO, there is always a caveat to saying yes. If your time and energy is better spent elsewhere, say no. If it's better for your physical, mental, or emotional health to say no, then say no. Obviously take what I say with a grain of salt and think about how to positively use what I say in your day-to-day life.

In our modern times it seems more and more people are becoming content with mediocrity--doing just enough to get by and fly under the radar. How many people spend every night in front of the TV watching the newest Netflix series? How many people never moved out of their hometown? How many people stayed in an unfulfilling job and never moved onto something bigger and better?

It's comfortable to stay in your home instead of going to that networking event downtown. It's comfortable to live in your hometown where you know everyone and everything. Saying yes can be uncomfortable--but that's where you will grow as a person!

Maybe it's out of your comfort zone to go to a new gallery opening where you won't know anyone, but what if you say yes and attend the opening. You could meet great, like-minded people that could propel you in your professional career. Maybe it's out of your comfort zone to go to the gym, but what if you say yes and start going. You could find a new hobby that results in bettering yourself physically and hanging around a new crowd focused on self-development.

As a young professional myself, I've taken on this mindset of saying yes. Whenever an opportunity presents itself that could build my portfolio, expand my network, or open future doors, I say yes. I try to fill my free-time with obligations that propel me forward. Humans are happiest when they make progress and we are most susceptible to darkness when we are idle.

“I always tell people if you want to know the secret to happiness, I can give it to you in one word: progress. Progress equals happiness.” -Tony Robbins

A key component to this mindset of saying yes is putting yourself in the position to say yes more often. Maybe you already have friends or coworkers presenting opportunities to you like weekend plans or professional ventures. If so, then foster what you have and start saying yes! If you don't have this framework already, then start with yourself--say yes to yourself! Once you've done this, then you can start initiating the opportunities to people you know.

The next time someone asks you to grab coffee or grab drinks, say yes--the Netflix will still be there another time. The next time a job opportunity presents itself across the country and you aren't tied to your current geography, say yes. So many future opportunities could hinge on a single interaction--start increasing your potential for a Butterfly Effect interaction!

Your life can be turned around in a short matter of time by simply choosing to reject laziness and mediocrity and embracing action and opportunity.

Saying yes is a lifestyle. It isn't something you do for a month and give up on, it's a habit. Start small by saying yes to plans for this weekend. Go big by saying yes to a new job offer. The world is yours for the taking--get out there and control it.