My Hell Yes! or Hell No! Approach for 2026

🌟 A new year is a fresh start to set intentions, let go of what’s not serving you well, and focus on the clean slate of a new beginning. Some people choose a word to be their guiding thought for the year, others set resolutions and goals. There is no singular way, so honor what feels right for you. I have chosen two phrases that will be my 2026 philosophy.

As I navigate my life and career this year and all the decisions, opportunities, and challenges I will face, I have chosen to respond with “Hell Yes!”, or “Hell No!”

Understanding the “Hell Yes! or Hell No!” Framework

The “Hell Yes! or Hell No!” approach, popularized by entrepreneur Derek Sivers, emphasizes the importance of enthusiastic commitment. It suggests that if an opportunity doesn’t inspire a clear and immediate “Hell Yes!” response from you, it is likely a “Hell No!” This dichotomy helps simplify decision-making by urging us to recognize our genuine passions and priorities, which is particularly crucial in a time of rapid transformation.

Aligning Opportunities with Personal Values

In 2026, the geopolitical landscape, technological advancements, and societal changes significantly influence our choices. To navigate these complexities, consider whether an opportunity aligns with your core values. Ask yourself:

• Does this opportunity resonate with what I genuinely believe in?
• Will it enhance my sense of fulfillment?

Our values should be non-negotiable guides in decision-making. For example, if sustainability is a core value for you, an opportunity that harms the environment might initially look appealing for its financial benefits but could lead to long-term dissatisfaction.

Passion and Interest: The Key to Engagement

Next, reflect on your emotional response. Do you feel excitement at the thought of engaging in this opportunity? If it leaves you feeling indifferent or stressed, it’s likely not the right path. Consider these prompts:

• Does this opportunity invigorate me or drain my energy?
• Am I looking forward to the challenges it presents, or do they fill me with dread?

In a world where burnout is a common concern, choosing paths that align with our passions is paramount. In 2026, the workforce is evolving; positions that allow for creative expression and personal growth are increasingly valued.

Assessing Long-term Viability

While it’s essential to trust your gut, it’s equally crucial to analyze the long-term viability of an opportunity. Ask yourself:

• What are the potential benefits of pursuing this path a few years down the line?
• How does this choice align with my long-term career aspirations?

The world is shifting toward a more dynamic labor market where adaptability is vital. Roles that may seem enticing today could become obsolete rapidly. Thus, ensuring that the opportunity aligns with future trends is essential for sustaining career growth.

Learning to Say No

One of the greatest challenges many people face is the fear of missing out or disappointing others. However, we need to remember that saying “no” is just as important as saying “yes.” If an opportunity feels more like an obligation than an inspiration, it’s often best to decline. Ask yourself:

• What am I willing to sacrifice in my personal or professional life for this opportunity?
• Are there projects or commitments that I’d rather focus on instead?

Embracing the Future with Confidence

💫 My aha realization for 2026 is to embrace the power I have right now to design my future, so it doesn’t happen by default. In the past, I often made decisions or pursued opportunities that didn’t honor my values, strengths, or health and wellbeing.

This year, I will be more discerning and make decisions about how I choose to spend my time and energy with more clarity of purpose. The simplicity of this decision making is truly elegant and can be applied to all decisions from purchasing a new outfit to pursuing a new career opportunity.

Test Drive and Experiment

I’m leaving room for experimenting and learning new things and expanding my comfort zone to stretch and grow. I’m no longer choosing to invest my time, energy, and expertise in opportunities, people, and experiences that don’t honor me and the art of the possible.

🌟 Your time and energy are precious—choose wisely! 💫

Bring on 2026 and the “Hell Yes!” opportunities you choose to pursue. Honor your boundaries, priorities and values to say, “Hell No!” when alignment doesn’t happen and your Spidey sense gives you pause. It’s not about being perfectly ready or prepared when saying, “Hell Yes!”  It’s about discerning what really inspires you – what will empower you – how you can grow and learn from that experience. The “Hell No!” opportunities tend to be people pleasing roadblocks that don’t honor you. You have the power – now use it!

 #DecisionMaking #HellYes! #ValuesDriven #EmpathyInAction #ExecutiveCoach #KeynoteSpeaker #OwnYourPower