I used to say no. A LOT. Like, literally all the time. It was my favorite word. Someone would come at me wanting to do something and I would say no. Someone would ask me out and I would immediately say no. Someone would want to go on a trip and I would say no. Any change to my schedule was met with resistance. It was a sad existence.
When I reconnected with my sweet husband a little over a year ago, he opened my eyes to the possibility of yes. When he first asked me out, I wanted to say no. I even told him that when he asked. He said, “you don’t have to answer right now.” I said, “if you want me to say yes, you better tell me you need an answer now. If you give me time to think about it the answer will be no.” Look at where that yes led me. I said yes and the rest is history.
When I was first offered this job, I wanted to say no. Not because I didn’t want it, but because I didn’t want the change that came with it. I was happy and comfortable and living a very full social life. I didn’t want the sacrifice that yes would bring. But look where that yes led me.
Now, in my daily interactions, I try to say yes as often as I can. Not because I’m a pushover, but because I see the possibility in yes. There is so much resistance in the word no. Some of us say it, simply to resist. Instead of resisting change, I’m learning to embrace change. I’m learning to lean into the discomfort of change and I’m brave enough to forge new paths. I’m no longer so afraid of failure that I say no just to stay in my comfort zone. I’d rather fail at something new than stay stuck in my resistance. Sweet friends don’t let no, and safety and comfort become your default. Lean into the hard, fun, exhilaration of yes. See the possibility that yes brings. Much love and amazing possibilities sweet friends.
