Some days we feel like the door is being slammed in our face, that none of our ideas are worthwhile, and that we’re trying to swim uphill. Instead of focusing on the “no” in your life, look for opportunities to say “yes.” This might be as simple as saying “thank you” or more complicated like learning a new language. Read on as we encourage you with actions and ideas you can say “yes” to, today! 

1) Say “yes” to trying something new.

Whether it’s learning a new skill or getting a refresher on some old ones, it’s never too late to keep learning. You might tackle mastering the ins-and-outs of a productivity hack, like the Trello™ app to organize your daily to-dos. You could step in front of the camera and video your speech before giving a presentation. This would allow you to analyze the effectiveness of your facial expressions and hand gestures. You might decide to learn a new language to better communicate with potential business associates. Whatever the case, don’t be afraid to learn something new. Developing new abilities challenges your brain in new ways and can greatly improve your life.

2) Say “yes” to taking risks.

Taking risks might mean going to a networking event where you don’t know anyone or sending a video message instead of a text to better relate with a team member. Putting yourself out there feels awkward and uncomfortable at first, but the rewards outweigh the initial discomfort. You’ll develop increased confidence and make meaningful connections from being willing to meet new people, which will make a big difference in your success.

3) Say “yes” to spending time alone.

Spending some time by yourself everyday allows for quiet reflection and increased mindfulness. Try waking up a little earlier in the morning or making yourself a cup of tea in the evening to sit alone and think about your goals and dreams. Bring a journal with you to record your thoughts and write your intentions. Be your own best friend.

4) Say “yes” to making a meal from scratch.

Fast food is convenient and grease tastes delicious. We get it. But there’s something really wonderful about a homecooked meal made from scratch. Get your hands dirty as you mix a fresh batch of cookie dough for dessert. Make it a family event as you delegate someone to chop vegetables for the salad, someone to stir the sauce, and someone to measure out the ingredients for fresh pasta. Then, set the table together and cheers to a beautiful homemade meal.

5) Say “yes” to eating lunch away from your desk.

We know it can be tempting to sit at your desk during lunch so that you can simultaneously eat a sandwich, make a phone call, and check an email—but take a break! Let your mind reset as you fuel your body or take a brisk walk around the block. You’ll come back to your desk feeling refreshed and ready to take on your to-do list with renewed energy.

6) Say “yes” to doing favors.

While we aren’t advocating that you stretch yourself too thin, it feels really wonderful to offer up your services occasionally. If someone needs you to watch their kid for an hour so that they can attend a meeting or perhaps they could really use a hand moving, and you happen to have a truck—offer to help out. The person you’re helping will be immensely grateful, and you’ll feel pretty great, too!

7) Say “yes” to listening to your body’s needs.

Is your back aching because you’ve been sitting in your chair for too long and need to stretch your neck? Do you have a headache from staring at your computer screen for too long with bad posture? Stay in tune with your body’s needs … and listen up! Stay hydrated, stay fueled, and stay positive! If your hands need a break from typing furiously, shake them out. If your feet are tired from standing all day, sit down for a bit. Ignoring the pain will only make it worse.

Refer to this list often and adapt it to your particular schedule and life. As you go about your day, look for opportunities to say “yes”! And remember, if you’re going to say yes to something, make sure you follow through with it!