To YES or NO - That Is The Question

Life is full of opportunities. But how do you determine which to accept or decline? It depends on a variety of factors. First, what do you want for your life? What are your goals? Who do you want to be?

For me, I enjoy the company of people but I value my time spent alone making my art. I want to travel. I want to change the way the world views education. So, how do I use these to help me decide when to say yes and when to say no?

This year has been a time full of changes. I left my job as a teacher after 15 years without a plan lined up but have just accepted a position overseas - both to teach and develop curriculum.

• I said NO to my recent position because I felt unsupported with regards to student behavior in addition to a lack of professional advancement

• I said YES to the new position because of the prospect of travel, increased pay and an elevated job title

• I said YES to an abrupt resignation without a “Plan B” because I was financially able to take some time waiting for the right job. If this hadn't been my situation, I’d have made a plan, saved, and then done the same thing!

• I say NO to people who expect FREE LABOR - intellectual or otherwise

• I say YES to personal growth, connection and love!

While I cannot advise what anyone else should say yes or no to in their own lives, I hope that you reflect on what is important to you and you remain open to opportunities that facilitate them as well as not be afraid to decline offers that make you feel uncomfortable. Trust your intuition.

In Art & Solidarity,

Marla