I have just turned 69—a milestone that nudges me into my seventh decade on this beautiful planet. But here’s the question that dances in my mind: Is it ever too late to change, to reinvent, to stretch beyond my well-worn paths?
Let me share some truths about myself: I’ve always been cautious, a keen observer rather than a bold participant. When faced with new ideas or opportunities, my default mode is to list reasons why NOT to try them. Familiarity feels safe, after all.
Reasons to Say “Yes”
Yet lately, a spirit of adventure has been whispering in my ear. What if, instead of listing reasons to decline, I dug deeper and found just ONE reason to say yes? Could a lifelong bystander pivot toward adventure?
I don’t have all the answers, but I’ve set a specific goal: I’m embarking on a quest to experience 70 new things before my 70th birthday. I’m going to say yes to the, unusual, the unexpected, and perhaps, the downright crazy.
Seventy Yeses List
So, I’ve started crafting my “Seventy Yeses List.” Not a bucket list—this one is infused with spontaneity, curiosity, and a dash of audacity. And I’m sharing it publicly because I need your help. Yes, you—my friends, my fellow adventurers. Hold me accountable as I step into uncharted territory.
My heart flutters at the thought of facing my self-imposed fears. The thrill of possibility beckons. Here are a few items already penciled in:
1. Get my first passport,
2. Eat my first piece of sushi: (If I can overcome my lifelong fear of parasitic worms)
3. Volunteer in new ways. (Because it’s not ALL about me)
But I need 67 more ideas! What would you suggest? Big stuff, small stuff, or silly stuff? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And remember, keep it clean, keep it classy, and—please—keep me out of the hospital. 
Let’s make this year a symphony of yeses, a crescendo of courage. Here’s to embracing adventure, no matter our age! Please give me your suggestions or thoughts about the YES concept for YOUR life.
Nancy C. Anderson is an award-winning writer who is the author of Avoiding the Greener Grass Syndrome and a contributing writer to thirty other books, including six Chicken Soup for the Soul titles. Nancy has been featured in national media such as The Huffington Post, The 700 Club, WORLD Magazine, Our Daily Bread and FamilyLife Today. She lives in Orange County, California with her husband of 40 years and their son, Nick. Learn more at http://nancycanderson.com/.