The Power of Saying Yes: Embracing New Opportunities
The Power of Saying Yes:
Embracing New Opportunities
We’re living in a time of uncertainty and chaos, and we happen to be working for institutions that are feeling the brunt of it. Our universities and colleges are facing immense pressures to make changes in how they operate. It seems that every week for the last six months we’ve heard from one of our NACCU family that their operation is facing budget cuts, layoffs, added duties, reorgs and hostile environments all demanding fundamental change.
What strategies are members using to cope with these changes? During a planning meeting for another event, I asked three volunteers how they manage change, especially in these times. They began with the immediate reactions of denial and anger, two steps in the grieving process. We all agreed that while those were understandable reactions, they didn’t accomplish anything. Still working in the abstract, we began the process of determining the magnitude of the change(s) and the impact on the campus card program and students being served. Reality arrived quickly as everyone acknowledged that you take a deep breath, think about what needs to be done, start the research, and work on a plan.
We all agreed these changes would be more readily accepted if communication is clear, timely, and frequent. You, your staff, and constituents will more readily buy in if you understand why something is being asked of you. The reverse is also true, a helpful reminder when you’re the one mandating change. Decision-making information is not a challenge to the powers that be; it’s a key factor in building the road map.
I recently read the New York Times bestselling author Mel Robbins’ book Let Them. Her theory is that you cannot control what other people do so Let Them, while you control how you react and choose to use your power (Let Me). Acknowledge and accept things as they are and focus on your path forward. (A shout out to whoever completed their conference evaluation and suggested we book Mel Robbins for a keynote. While she’s way out of our price range, we can still learn from her books and other media presence.) Try the Let Them theory at work, at home (kid’s messy room? Close the door and Let Them live with it), and for some of you, while driving.
Our conversation continued to move to more thoughtful, long-term reactions and I suggested the power of saying yes. When we welcome change instead of resisting it, we open doors to growth, adventure, and new perspectives. Shonda Rhimes (the titan behind Grey’s Anatomy, Scandal, How to Get Away with Murder, ...) spent a year saying yes. For her, the results were life changing. She formed deeper relationships, rediscovered joy, her creativity, and spent some serious quality time playing with her kids whenever they asked.
Saying yes doesn’t mean we say yes to everything. Let’s shift though and try practicing it - maybe our initial reaction to change will move from stages of grief to stages of empowerment, or at least acceptance.
My discussion partners were generous enough to share their views on the power of saying yes.
Nicole Kerns, Director of USCard at the University of Southern California asked “Do you want to be the change or help form the path? Say yes … not because you must, but because you want to be a part of an evolving world. Saying yes provides a seat at tables where I can contribute and lead.”
Kym Bridgers, Sr. Director of Auxiliary IT and Bison One card at Howard University, who is also working on her doctorate, explained: “I accept change by recognizing that saying yes to new ideas, new ways of working, or challenges allows me to grow both personally and professionally.”
Rachel Herrington, Assistant Director of Finance and Administration, Auxiliary Services at Louisiana State University offered: “Saying yes to change is an act of courage and sometimes, a leap of faith – but leading others through change with realism and steady support is an act of service. True leadership is not just about adapting; it’s about being ‘the calm’ in the shift, and the anchor for your team as you all move forward together. When we say “yes” with purpose, we create space for growth, model resilience, and become a steady force that empowers our team to rise to any challenges with us.
Inspiring words, indeed. I’m always lifted by our community’s thoughtfulness and generosity. A place at the table, personal and professional growth, true leadership, resilience, and empowerment? We would all say yes to that!
Programming note: we were so energized by our discussion we plan to share our thoughts and invite yours at the next NACCU NetworX: Women in Credential Leadership on July 9. Everyone is welcome. Please, say yes to joining us – everyone is welcome!