The Power of an Unexpected Yes
Over a year ago, two of my girlfriends reached out with an invitation that sounded straight out of a travel magazine, “Would you like to spend a week on a yacht in the Adriatic Sea, sailing to Croatia and its islands?” My first thought? Croatia? Honestly, it wasn’t even on my bucket list. The cost seemed steep, and I couldn’t quite picture myself there. My automatic response was a hesitant no.
But then, just a few days later, one of the girls sent me photos. Crystal blue waters, sun-kissed stone villages, walled cities brimming with history, and sunsets that looked like watercolor paintings across the horizon. My heart did a little flip. Without a second thought, I messaged back: “I’m in!” It’s funny how quickly something you never even considered can become an adventure you’ll never forget.
Croatia quietly crept into my heart long before I even set foot there. I think it’s one of those destinations that doesn’t always get the spotlight. And yet, little by little, it’s becoming the place to visit.
For months, the trip unfolded in the background while another friend, a meeting planner, worked her magic. All I had to do was show up and say yes. That was the gift. And after several travel delays, when I finally arrived, oh Croatia, you took my breath away.
Imagine cobblestone streets winding through limestone alleyways. Ancient walls hugging old cities that whisper stories of centuries past. Vineyards draped in green, lavender fields waving in the breeze, and olive trees that seemed to stand guard over the land. The sea? Shades of blue I could hardly imagine. And the food… fresh-caught seafood, golden olive oil drizzled over just-baked bread, wine that made each sunset taste even sweeter. Every corner held a new delight.
One of my favorite parts? Those days spent on the yacht, gliding across the Adriatic, island-hopping like we were characters in a movie or bobbing and playing in the crystal clear turquoise sea. Each stop brought a new adventure: climbing countless limestone stairs, exploring squares buzzing with laughter, and discovering hidden gems tucked away down charming alleyways.
And yet, as stunning as the places were, what made it unforgettable were the moments with friends, old and new. The laughter. The conversations under the stars. The memories that would never have existed if I had stuck with my original “no.”
It reminded me of a powerful truth, sometimes the most magical chapters of our lives aren’t on our bucket list. They arrive unexpectedly, waiting for us to be brave enough, or curious enough, to say yes. If I had said no, I would have missed the old-world charm, the turquoise waters, the taste of Croatia’s treasures, and the soul-deep joy of sharing it with dear friends. Sometimes life invites us into something that feels uncertain or not part of the plan. And yet, those are often the very experiences that expand our hearts the most. Step out of your comfort zone and say yes to the unknown and to new adventures. Because those unplanned yeses? They just might become the stories you’ll tell for a lifetime.
Here’s my invitation to you:
The next time an unexpected opportunity comes your way, pause before you say no.
Ask yourself: “What if this is my Croatia?”
Dare to say yes, even if it feels scary, inconvenient, or unplanned.
So, what about you, my friend? Where in your life are you hesitating or holding back from an experience, an adventure, or an opportunity simply because it wasn’t on your list? Maybe today is your invitation to lean in, trust the nudge, and say yes. Because just like Croatia surprised me with its beauty, wonder, and unforgettable memories, your next yes might be waiting to surprise you too.
For me it was the power of an unexpected yes, because sometimes the most breathtaking chapters of our lives are the ones we never thought to write. Croatia wasn’t on my list. But now, it will forever be in my heart.
xo Sheryl
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