The Beauty of No

Oh, boy! Here comes another year. It’s time for us to square our shoulders and take the walk of pride (or shame, cough) over to our vision boards to assess all that we’ve accomplished, or put on hold due to life’s circumstances or the (be honest) consequences of our own actions…or lack thereof.

Perhaps reflecting over this past year is causing you to feel a little anxiety. Maybe you’re flipping the calendar to 2018 as slowly as possible with shaky fingers and a little apprehension because of no’s, fear, and dream-deferments that 2017 and prior years have mercilessly handed you. I mean, sure, you’re going to buy a fancy new planner and proclaim 2018 as “Your year” because it’s the thing to do, but inside, you may have a tiny little voice that whispers “But is it really?”

The answer is yes. You’re right, I don’t know you personally, but I do know one thing for certain – once you discover the beauty of no, you don’t have to be fearful or anxious about what’s to come. You don’t have to grasp your vision board for dear life while walking a frail tightrope of hope, with your eyes fixed down at fear. You see, no is only a suggestion. What beautiful things can you think of that have evolved from a no? No will force you to discover that you are enough, that not settling was actually the best decision you’ve made, that you are more creative and resourceful than you give yourself credit for, and that perhaps you really are The Little Engine That Could 2.0. While none of us would necessarily choose a no, you’re guaranteed to learn one thing from it – it doesn’t have the power that you think it does.

I can’t tell you that everything will be perfect, that you won’t have any tough moments and that you’ll win the lottery, although I’m optimistic that you’ll experience amazing highs more rewarding than you could ever imagine. I can tell you to think good thoughts, to lighten up a little, and not to be so hard on yourself. Don’t allow past disappointments to drive your goals, or to cause you to set low standards to safeguard your heart from fear of failure.

Here’s my ode to you in 2018 (as we hold our imaginary crystal glasses in the air) – May this year be the year that you’re not held hostage by the fear of a no, and that you know that “No” doesn’t have to win. Exhale – 2018 is going to be a great year, really, it is.