Maya Rudolph delivered a captivating commencement speech at Tulane University, emphasizing the importance of the phrase “Yes, and” in shaping one’s future. She illustrated her point with humor and relatable anecdotes, encouraging graduates to embrace opportunities rather than rejecting them outright. “In improvisation, there’s one fundamental principle: ‘Yes, and,’” she stated. “If I could offer you one piece of advice, it would be to say ‘Yes’ and actively shape your own destiny… and don’t forget to unplug from your devices occasionally.”
This philosophy resonates strongly, especially during the transitional period following college. For instance, when faced with the decision to share an apartment, one might say, “Yes, and I’ll take the master bedroom.” Similarly, when asked to grab drinks after work, the answer could be, “Yes, and let’s make it a double.” Even controversial choices, like having an affair, can be rephrased to include a proactive twist: “Yes, and I’ll start looking for a new job.”
Applying “Yes, and” in Parenting
But does this approach still hold true once you settle down and have children? Let’s explore how “Yes, and” can be applied in parenting scenarios.
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Picture this: It’s Sunday evening, and after a day of fun at the beach with your kids, they request a trip to Dairy Queen. Instead of the usual “No,” you embrace the moment with “Yes, and I’ll have a large Brownie Batter Blizzard too.”
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Consider your 16-year-old who just got their driver’s license and wants to borrow your car for a study session with friends. Your instinct might be to deny the request, but instead, you respond: “Yes, and please pick up some milk and eggs on your way back.”
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During a girls’ night out, when a group of guys buys you a round of shots, your initial reaction might be to decline, thinking of responsibilities at home. However, you could choose to celebrate spontaneity by saying, “Yes, and let’s order another round… on their tab!”
These examples illustrate that adopting a “Yes, and” mindset can lead to more enjoyable and fulfilling experiences, even in the context of parenting. For more insights on navigating parenthood, consider exploring our other blog posts at Home Insemination Kit. Additionally, if you’re interested in self-insemination, Make a Mom offers valuable resources on the subject. For further guidance on pregnancy and home insemination, IVF Babble is an excellent resource.
Conclusion
In summary, the “Yes, and” philosophy can be a game-changer for parents, allowing them to embrace opportunities and create memorable moments with their families.