on saying yes

Image credit: Fwallpapers.com

Did y'all read Tina Fey's article in the Huff Post? I loved every word and read it twice. In fact, I just went back and read it a third time after writing the last sentence. She is a smart lady. Despite some criticism I heard before reading it, I also liked Bossypants. A devotee of 30 Rock, I pretty much adore everything she puts her stamp on.

Back to that article. I don't normally consider myself a yes woman. I don't go out on a limb. I play it safe. I'm not a trendsetter. I'm not an early adopter of technology, books, hairstyles, TV shows, leisure activities, or food. I suppose the only exception to that rule could be health trends, but I don't count that area because you're supposed to adopt trends in your field early. It's called a job.

Lately, as part of a non-resolution-resolution, I decided to pay attention to whether I'm saying yes or no to the opportunities that come my way and say yes to them when I can. That is, when my answer as to why I want to say no is lame, I say yes. This practice is harder than I thought it'd be, and it means I'm trying LOTS of new things.

Drink caffeine?
Yes. 

Learn childbirth education?
Yes!

Help organize the church auction?
Yes? 

Sprout potatoes for seed?
Yikes...okay.

Eat canned fish that isn't tuna?
Erm, I guess so. 

Have you tried anything lately that you hesitated to do at first? How'd it turn out? I have a hunch Ms. Fey is correct that saying yes just might make the difference for becoming a successful person. Well, that and 10,000 hours.

Pricey caffeinated loose tea and caramels? Yes, please!