I am a creature of habit and of my bedroom. I would not consider myself an extrovert or adventurous, and I cherish my alone time. I love meeting new people, but my social battery drains faster than an obsolete iPhone.

Still, I often complain about being lonely and having nothing going on. 

I spent my freshman year at Eastern Florida State College, and while it was an amazing financial decision, it lacked socially. 

Others in my graduating high school class were posting about their seemingly perfect first semester, while I was back home thinking about what Sonic Happy Hour drink I should buy after class. How eventful.

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When I got accepted to USF and came to campus last fall, I knew something had to change or I would see my bedroom walls more than I saw another person.

I decided I would try just saying ‘Yes.’ 

For a full semester I abided by it as much as I could. I can confidently say it has been one of the best habits I have practiced, and I encourage you to try it for yourself. 

Saying yes to (mostly) whatever came across my table has brought me out of my shell. I thought it would be difficult at first as I’m one who wracks my brain mid-conversation for believable excuses to stay home from plans. 

But I threw away the ‘Maybe’s’ and started making my decisions in the split-second ‘sure why not’ shrug of my shoulders, giving myself little time to think otherwise. 

It quickly became second nature. I found anything I was on the fence about was oftentimes what I’d remember most.

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It helped me become close with my roommates as I tag along with them to late night McDonald’s runs or Sunday oddities markets. It is how I took on organizing a concert fundraiser for a USF club with no experience. Or how I ended up as an extra in a local band’s music video shoot on a Monday night – you get the picture.

I learned a lot about myself. I have become a little bolder, more self-assured and my social battery strengthened. I hardly regret saying yes because everything is an experience to pocket and a new perspective gained. 

However, being somebody who is up for anything has its downsides. You may stretch yourself too thin. Agreeing to do 10 things at once can soon exhaust you. 

And of course, use your discretion and keep your boundaries in mind. Do not be reckless and justify dangerous decisions with, “but Olivia from The Oracle told me to.”

In no way am I advocating for putting yourself in dangerous positions. 

Make small moves at first. You do not have to immediately fling yourself into the jaws of the unknown. A happy medium exists between venturing out of your comfort zone and feeling unsafe or too overwhelmed and I challenge you to find it. 

I must admit, so far this semester I have been more selective about what I do say yes to, given my busy school schedule. But the habit does not have to be constant. 

It can be a lifelong practice – one we should all try.