Almost no one can remain unhappy if you do this.

Try to say yes.

Among the things that make people angry and upset is when they feel no one is listening.  Worse yet, not responding to them in a positive way.

On a recent flight from Philadelphia to Phoenix a US Airways gate agent seemed to look for ways to say “no”. 

To be fair, these airline employees are often hamstrung by company policy.  Can’t find you a seat.  Can’t sell you an upgrade so you can sit together until just before boarding.  Can’t stand in line an hour in advance to be first to board. 

Can’t. Can’t. Can’t.

The airlines are famous for this but unfortunately in today’s world, no is the new yes.

Let’s get beyond no.

1.  Find ways – and that means really look for them – to say yes to others at work, at home and even in occasional contact with people you don’t know or see very often.  Even if policy prohibits you from doing exactly what others want, we can often find another way to say yes and deliver the message we’re listening and responding.

2.  In personal relationships – you can do this one today if you want – give a spouse, child or friend your say in making a choice or decision if you can be comfortable with it.  Stand back and watch happiness like you’ve never seen.

3.  Be sincere.  Nothing is worse than an insincere attempt to manipulate another person by fooling them into thinking you’re listening and responding.

There are lots of things we cannot control in life, but saying, “yes” to others is not one of them.

Say yes to impress.

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