Affirmative Actions

  

     Yes. It's one of the most powerful, life-opening words the English language has to offer. "Yes" almost always brings good experiences if you use it correctly because of the positive energy surrounding the word. Yet, people seem to shy away from the power of the word that is yes. If you are one of those people, live no longer in fear of what Yes may bring, but instead embrace it! Allow me to help alleviate the fear and reservations you may have regarding Yes.

     First off, the most important thing to note when using Yes is that discretion and common sense must still be a part of the equation. If a stranger walks up to you at a party and asks you to try crystal meth the obvious answer here is to modestly deny their offer. Other situations may be an impromptu marriage proposal from someone you barely know or something that implies criminal involvement. Without these basic building blocks of decision making any good that Yes may have to offer could just become an excuse for a low-life to indulge in self deprecating behavior.
     The next step is to not just jet from living a hermit life away from others turning down every opportunity, to standing on top of a mountain the following week, missing work and not notifying your family, because you started using Yes in every available situation. Instead it is crucial that you slowly push yourself to indulge in Yes in small social situations you may not have participated in prior, such as just going to a bar with your friends instead of staying in and playing minecraft. This particular tactic takes that you know what you are comfortable with and push those boundaries a little bit, in time standing on Mt. Everest will be yours, if that's what you're into.
     Lastly, the most important thing to remember is that Yes is more about a general attitude and outlook on life rather than just a word. Yes is about removing limits from yourself and your day so when you turn in for the night you have a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment regarding your day rather than that droll "day-in, day-out" feeling that we all become complacent with after years of having it. Yes is about opening your eyes and seeing the world from a new perspective. The world becomes your playground, yes from 9 AM to 5 PM you are Mr. Schmo: Sales Associate at Staples, but after you become Joe Schmo: Adventurer Extraordinaire!
     Remember to have fun in all your endeavors and that life, in the grand view of things, is short. Enjoy it as much as possible!

This post is dedicated to Courtney Walsh, a dear friend of mine who passed away recently who embraced the Yes attitude and left an impression on everyone she encountered.