Maya Rudolph’s recent commencement speech at Tulane University was nothing short of a triumph. With hilarious impressions of icons like Oprah and a Beyoncé-inspired rendition of the national anthem, she captured the audience’s attention while delivering a profound message: the importance of embracing the phrase “Yes, and” instead of defaulting to “No.”
“In the world of improvisation, one rule stands above all,” Rudolph explained. “If I could offer you just one piece of advice, it would be this: Say ‘Yes.’ Say ‘Yes, and’ to shape your own future … and occasionally, put down your smartphone.”
This advice resonates profoundly, especially throughout the early stages of adulthood. In those formative years post-college, saying “Yes, and” opens doors and opportunities. For instance, if a friend proposes sharing an apartment, you might say, “Yes, and I’ll take the master bedroom.” Or when invited for drinks after work, you could respond, “Yes, and I’ll have a double!” Even in more questionable scenarios, like contemplating an affair with a boss, the answer might humorously become, “Yes, and I’ll start job hunting right away!”
Does This Philosophy Hold Up in Parenthood?
But does this philosophy maintain its relevance once you transition into parenthood? Let’s explore this concept further.
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Picture a Sunday night at 7 p.m. after an exhilarating day at the beach with your children. Just as you settle in to relax, your 9-year-old bounces in asking, “Mommy, can we go to Dairy Queen?” Your instinct is to say, “Absolutely not.” However, recalling the weekend spirit, you might instead say, “Yes, and please grab me a large Brownie Batter Blizzard.” Perfect!
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Your 16-year-old has just earned his driver’s license and wants to borrow your car. “Mom, can I have your keys? Andrew’s studying with some friends.” You know that “studying” is code for watching a movie with girls. While your first thought is a firm “no,” you switch gears and reply, “Yes, and please stop for milk and eggs on your way back.” Win-win!
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It’s girls’ night, and you’re dining out with fellow moms when a group of guys sends over shots. You’re tempted to decline, thinking about the school day ahead, but instead, you raise your glass and declare, “Yes, and let’s have another round … on them!”
This “Yes, and” mindset seems like a winning strategy for parents too. For deeper insights into the journey of parenthood and home insemination, you can check out this blog post, and for an authoritative guide on the subject, visit this site. Additionally, for valuable resources on pregnancy, the CDC offers excellent information.
Conclusion
In summary, Maya Rudolph’s “Yes, and” philosophy not only resonates with young adults but also proves useful for parents navigating the complexities of family life. Embracing this mindset can lead to more fulfilling experiences, both personally and within the family dynamic.