By EDGE Women Speaker Nancy Depcik
It’s hard to believe that just one small word can make such a big difference. A difference in your attitude, your outlook and how you overcome life’s challenges. You’re probably thinking it’s about saying “no” or “don’t” or “never” but there’s a twist on this word that will surprise you. Before I share the word, please let me explain how it helped me.
I grew up on the south side of Chicago in the 1950’s and it was a very different time for women. Whether I agreed with it or not, my path was already chosen for me. I was expected to graduate from high school, get married, have babies and be happy.
And in that order! No discussion; no deviation!!!
As a woman, IF you wanted to work outside the home, you could be a nurse or a dental hygienist, but never a doctor or dentist. College was never discussed or encouraged, because as my mother always told me: “You don’t need a college education to have babies.” I never thought there could be a different way because this is the only life I knew.
Deep down, though, I wondered if there was another path. Not necessarily to follow, but to pioneer a new one of my own. And that is exactly what I did. I chose the path of college, business and boardrooms. It may not sound like such a big deal today, but back then, it was a major decision. To give you some perspective, think back to the groundbreaking hit TV sitcom called The Mary Tyler Moore Show. She was an unmarried, independent woman who focused on her career and didn’t need to depend on a man to take care of her. That was totally unheard of at the time and Mary taught me that, yes, I do have a choice.
Throughout my journey, I have met some very powerful, dynamic and impressive women who have served as amazing role models for me. Thanks to them, I have learned to push myself beyond the limits of my self-confidence and nurture a strength inside myself that I didn’t even know existed.
That is why I decided to become a professional speaker. I’d like to give back and pay it forward to the women who are hesitant to step out of their own comfort zone. My goal is to help others believe in their own self-worth and build a self-confidence to lead the life they want and not what others expect of them.
One of the lessons I share in my presentations is in the power of one word. One three letter word that can help you sit up and take notice; one word that can help propel you forward on those days you want to give up because you feel like you’re not smart enough or strong enough or good enough.
Ready for the one word? Here it is: YET. That’s it.
The trick is to put this word at the end of the sentence every time you tell yourself you can’t do something. It goes something like this:
That client hasn’t signed the contract – yet.
I can’t afford my dream vacation – yet.
I have no idea what I’m doing on this project – yet.
It makes all the difference in the world. That one three letter word opens all sorts of opportunities to you. It helps you flip the switch and begin thinking about what is possible.
That is why I joined in with seven other ladies to found EDGE Women Speakers. I have surrounded myself with Experienced, Dynamic, Global and Entertaining women who chose their path in life and share their success with all who will listen.
So, if you are planning an event and feel overwhelmed, you may be thinking:
I haven’t found a dynamic speaker who will wow my audience – yet.
I haven’t found an expert voice who will educate my audience – yet.
I haven’t discovered an inspiring speaker who will motivate my audience into ACTION – yet.
If you want to solve your “YETs” and make your event come alive, check out EDGE Women Speakers.