"Say yes and you'll figure it out afterwards"

The essence of this quote is about embracing opportunities with an open mind and a willingness to learn as you go. It’s all about jumping in, even if you don’t have all the answers right away. It's a mindset that encourages action and growth, suggesting that the details and solutions will come together once you commit.

Historically, this kind of thinking aligns with the entrepreneurial spirit. Think about how many successful startups and businesses were built on this very principle. They didn’t start with all the pieces in place. Instead, they saw an opportunity, said “yes,” and figured things out along the way. It’s kind of like diving into a pool without knowing how to swim perfectly but trusting that you'll learn quickly and adapt.

Let’s bring this idea to life with a real-world example. Picture this: Jane, a graphic designer, was offered a project to design a full-scale marketing campaign for a high-profile client. She had never done anything on that scale before—her experience was mainly with smaller, individual design tasks. Despite her reservations and the fear of failing, she said “yes.” This decision pushed her out of her comfort zone. She spent countless nights researching, learning new software, calling up mentors, and piecing everything together bit by bit. In the end, not only did she deliver a successful campaign, but she also expanded her skill set and boosted her confidence. If she had waited until she felt completely ready, she might have missed the chance altogether.

So, how can you apply this bit of wisdom to your own life? Start by recognizing opportunities, even if they seem daunting. Think about the things you've wanted to try but held back because you felt unsure. Maybe it's a new job, a creative project, or even a personal goal like running a marathon. The key is to commit first. Say “yes” and then tackle the challenges one step at a time. Learn as you go. Ask for help. Search for resources. Trust in your ability to adapt and grow.

Now, imagine you’re at a coffee shop with a friend who's hesitant about a big decision. They've been offered to lead a project at work that’s outside their usual scope. They’re worried they might not be up to the task. You tell them about the marketing campaign Jane took on. You explain how saying “yes” opened doors for her, how she grew and succeeded despite the initial fear. You encourage your friend to take the plunge and assure them that figuring it out along the way is not only possible but often the best way to learn and evolve.

In everyday life, this concept can look like accepting an invitation to speak at an event even if public speaking isn’t your forte, starting a business venture with minimal experience, or even agreeing to help organize a community event despite never having done so before. The act of saying “yes” can propel you into a new realm of possibilities, where the growth happens in real-time, through experience and adaptation.

So next time you’re faced with an opportunity that scares you a little, think about the journey ahead. Say “yes,” and trust that you’ll figure it out afterwards. It’s all about embracing the unknown with confidence and curiosity.