In most decisions we face, we are given two choices – say yes or say no. It is simply 50-50!
Have you ever found yourself constantly saying no? No, that’s not in the budget. No, we don’t have time for that. No, there’s absolutely no way that can be done. While sometimes those statements may be true, I think association and chamber of commerce executives all need a little positive motivation at times.
I am encouraged and motivated by the words of Mahatma Gandhi when he said, “Keep your thoughts positive, because your thoughts become your words. Keep your words positive, because your words become your behavior. Keep your behavior positive, because your behavior becomes your habits. Keep your habits positive, because your habits become your values. Keep your values positive, because your values become your destiny.”
When I frame the influence of positive thinking in the terms of it becoming my destiny, it serves as an inspiration for me to find a way to say yes! This notion should begin to permeate throughout our organization, our staff, our board, our volunteers, and even our prospective partners.
For many, saying no is safe. No goals, no direction, no ambition, no vision, and no plan. As a rule, “no’s” neither move us nor our organizations forward.
Here’s where it gets tricky. It is not always easy to say yes.
Yes, I have decided to show courage. Yes, I have goals and a plan. Yes, I am going to try something new. Yes means taking chances, being brave, putting yourself out there, and embracing the future. When we open ourselves to saying yes, amazing opportunities and exciting possibilities await!
Of course, your “yes’s” should align with your organization, support your established mission, and concur with your vision. This equates to your yes having a purpose!
The next time you are faced with a difficult decision, take the positive approach. The collective strength of a yes can raise the expectations for all. Noted anthropologist and socialist Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of committed individuals can change the world, indeed it is the only thing that ever has.” Working together toward those “yes moments” can help associations and chambers of commerce do just that!
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