The Energy of YES

Choosing Yes to Energize Yourself and Others

Have you ever noticed what it feels like to receive a yes—especially one you were hoping for? A yes energizes you instantly. You feel happier, more enthusiastic, even a little giddy. In leadership communication and executive presence coaching, that lift matters. It’s simply fun to be on the receiving end of a yes.

Meanwhile, being on the receiving end of a no shuts you down. It drains energy, flattens enthusiasm, and makes everything feel heavier. Over time, I’ve noticed that some people are predisposed to yes and others to no. And you can watch the ripple effect: yes-people energize others during business speaking, AEC interview preparation, and even everyday conversations—while no-people unintentionally de-energize their teams.

I want to encourage you to become an energizer—to look for reasons to say yes. And more importantly, say yes to yourself. Many technically minded, quiet, or self-conscious professionals hold themselves back because their default response becomes no, or its cousins: “I don’t know,” and “I’m not sure.” In group presentation coaching, we see how often uncertainty becomes the internal blocker.

If you recognize this pattern—holding back, reducing your energy, avoiding engagement—try an experiment. For a short window of time, maybe a day, an hour, or even ten minutes, say yes to yourself. Give yourself full permission to follow your instincts, express energy, and bring presence into your interactions.

See what happens. Notice the shift in your confidence, warmth, and the way people respond. If you don’t like the results, stop. But if doors open, conversations become easier, or people seem to enjoy you more—keep going. With practice, yes can become your new default, and it strengthens leadership presence and communication skills across every professional setting.