Default to YES

Our natural defaults play a huge role in our lives, determining how we approach new experiences and interactions with others. For many of us, our default is to be wary of new things and hesitant to commit to something we might later regret. This was certainly true for me as a teenager, when I was always reluctant to commit to anything until I had more information.

However, my perspective completely changed when I asked a particular friend for a favor. Unlike most people, his immediate response was, "Of course, it would be my pleasure." This answer had a profound impact on me, and it instantly generated an impression of that friend. I realized our default should always be to reply with something positive, probably even a yes. And then actually try to help with whatever we are being asked.

This idea was reinforced when I contacted my uncle, who was living abroad, asking if I could stay at his home for a few days while on business in that city. He not only said yes, but he also left me instructions on how to get into the house and even stocked the fridge with fresh food to cook my dinner and breakfast. It was unexpected, but it showed me that successful people approach life with a karmic attitude. They do as much as they can to help, not expecting anything in return but knowing that somehow, sometime, it will generate some good.

I've realized our natural default of protecting ourselves often holds us back. Saying no or being hesitant may protect us from potential harm or regret, but it can also close us off from new experiences and opportunities to help others. By adopting a more positive and open default, we can help those around us and enrich our lives. Successful people understand this, and it's one trait that sets them apart.