Say “Yes” for a Month:Trust in the Universe.
This month’s newsletter is inspired by an amazing and incredibly inspirational client who first introduced me to the idea of saying “yes” as a life experiment.
Coincidently, it’s something I’d already been exploring as I read The Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer. One of those random trust in the Universe moments of coincidence!
Imagine saying “yes” to every opportunity, big or small, that comes your way for an entire month.
It might feel daunting or even counter to the careful decision-making we often rely on.
Yet, this simple shift can open doors, spark connections, and lead you to transformative experiences you’d never imagined.
A month of saying “yes” can be an extraordinary experiment in surrender and growth.
In Michael’s case it totally changed his life in unimaginable ways and led him from a life as a recluse and meditator to running a $billion company.
Why Saying “Yes” is a Game-Changer
In The Surrender Experiment, Singer’s journey is rooted in allowing life to flow through him by simply saying “yes”—even to things that felt unfamiliar or uncomfortable.
From small gestures to large commitments, this act of surrender fundamentally changed his life in ways he never expected.
When we say “yes” to new experiences, we step out of our comfort zones, challenge our assumptions, and open ourselves to growth.
Even tiny moments of surrender—a spontaneous coffee with a colleague, accepting an invite to an event, or diving into a task you might usually avoid—can lead to unexpected opportunities and joy.
What Saying “Yes” Can Bring:
New Connections
Small acts of “yes” can introduce us to people who might offer perspectives or opportunities that are life-changing. Each “yes” becomes a bridge, widening your network, and connecting you to people with ideas, advice, or shared interests.Fresh Perspectives and Insights
Breaking the cycle of predictable choices leads to new ideas and creative inspiration. Often, it’s only by doing something outside the usual routine that we can make room for unique experiences or creative breakthroughs.Increased Confidence and Resilience
Saying “yes” to the unknown means embracing vulnerability, but each time you do, you build confidence in your ability to handle surprises. Every new experience is a reminder of your resilience and adaptability, reinforcing the belief that you’re capable of more than you imagined.Embracing the Unfamiliar
Often, it’s the things we initially shy away from that end up having the most significant impact. Saying yes allows you to meet your assumptions with curiosity, opening yourself up to uncharted territory.
A Month of “Yes”: How to Start
Small Steps
Start small. Maybe a neighbour invites you to a gathering, or a colleague suggests a lunch. Allow these micro-moments of openness to unfold. Each yes is a step into a more expansive world.Notice the Discomfort
Discomfort is part of the journey. If you’re used to being cautious, the first “yes” might feel uncomfortable. Notice the feeling, let it pass, and watch how quickly it transforms into curiosity.Challenge Routine Decisions
Try saying yes to tasks or activities you usually avoid. Have you been invited to a new class or a networking event? Go along. Accept the invitation you’d usually decline. Breaking habits can lead to unanticipated and valuable outcomes.Trust the Process
Just as Singer experienced, sometimes “yes” won’t immediately make sense, and it might even feel contrary to what you’d usually choose. Trusting the process means being willing to follow a path even without knowing where it leads.
The Magic of Surrender
At the heart of saying “yes” lies a powerful lesson in surrender. By relinquishing a bit of control, you can create space for life to surprise you.
Instead of meticulously planning every moment, you open yourself up to spontaneity, embracing what comes as it arrives.
And when we let go of rigid expectations, we’re often rewarded with experiences beyond what we could have anticipated.
Benefits of Embracing “Yes”
A Broader Network
Meeting new people and hearing diverse perspectives can enrich your life in unexpected ways. These connections can evolve into friendships, mentorships, or even new career opportunities.New Skills and Experiences
Often, saying “yes” means trying things you haven’t done before, and that growth can lead to new hobbies, skills, or passions.A Greater Sense of Flow
When you’re not constantly assessing and controlling every situation, life feels more effortless, like a river guiding you forward. Surrendering to this flow can bring an immense sense of peace and well-being.More Spontaneous Joy
Saying “yes” often brings a sense of joy from unexpected places. Whether it’s a beautiful conversation or an opportunity to try something new, these unplanned moments can be the highlights of your week.
If going all in on this initially feels too much then start gently. Embracing a "yes" mindset doesn’t mean sacrificing your well-being or letting go of boundaries. Here are some ways to keep that positive energy while protecting your "LIFEFORCE":
1. Tune into Your Energy Levels
Pay attention to how an opportunity or request makes you feel before you respond. If you sense excitement, curiosity, or even a hint of nervousness, that’s often a sign of growth or discovery. On the other hand, if you feel immediate resistance, dread, or exhaustion, it could be your intuition warning you against it.
After you say yes, notice if it leaves you feeling uplifted, inspired, or more curious. These are signs that the experience is positively impacting your energy. If you feel drained or depleted, it’s time to re-evaluate what types of “yeses” align with you.
2. Define Your Core Boundaries
Identify a few non-negotiable boundaries that are essential to your well-being—whether it’s time alone to recharge, commitments to loved ones, or your work-life balance. Keeping these boundaries clear can guide your “yes” decisions without disrupting what’s core to you.
3. Ask: Is This Aligned with My Goals or Values?
Before committing, ask yourself if the opportunity aligns with what’s truly meaningful to you. Even if it feels challenging, if it moves you toward a bigger goal or deepens a value, it’s likely worth the stretch. If it’s only for someone else’s benefit and doesn’t resonate with your own values, consider a gentle “no.”
4. Set a Trial Period for New Commitments
You don’t have to commit indefinitely! Try a “yes” as an experiment. For example, if you’re considering joining a new group or taking on a project, commit for a month or a few weeks, then assess. Check in with yourself regularly to ensure it’s nourishing rather than draining.
5. Use the “Lifeforce” Boost Test
After a new experience, reflect on how it impacted you:
Did it boost your confidence, curiosity, or sense of connection?
Did it leave you feeling calm, centred, or joyful?
If yes, these are good indicators that it’s a “lifeforce” boost worth repeating.
If you feel scattered, tense, or drained, it might be time to re-evaluate or set limits around similar experiences.
6. Learn to Lovingly Say No When Needed
Saying yes to yourself can sometimes mean saying no to others. Protecting your energy means respecting your needs as well as others’. Practice saying no gracefully: try “I’d love to, but I have other commitments right now,” or “Thank you, but I need some time to recharge.”
Ultimately, "yes" should feel expansive and positive, not like a drain on your inner resources. Trust your instincts, monitor how each “yes” affects your mood and energy, and adjust as needed to keep both your boundaries and spirit intact!
Final Thoughts
A month of saying “yes” may sound simple, but it can be transformative. This small shift creates momentum, strengthens trust in yourself, and helps you approach life with curiosity and openness.
By letting go and letting life guide, you might find yourself not just opening up to new experiences but to new parts of yourself as well.
Are you ready to take the leap and say “yes” to life’s little invitations?
Some Inspiration for Your Journey:
🎥 Watching Recommendation
“The Surrender Experiment - Michael Singer
Lot’s of You Tube videos out there discussing the book.
📘 Reading Recommendation
The Surrender Experiment by Michael A. Singer – Delve into Singer’s transformative journey of saying “yes” and allowing life’s events to unfold in surprising and meaningful ways.
🎧 Listening Recommendation
On Purpose with Jay Shetty’s interview with Michael Singer, where he discusses surrender, acceptance, and the incredible power of letting go.
This month, why not try it yourself?
Say yes, embrace the unknown, and let life unfold in ways you’d never imagined.
And if you have any recommendations or topics you’d like covered, I’d love to hear from you.