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Book 34/52 of My #52Books52Weeks Bucket List Challenge

I picked up Hell Yeah or No at the same time as How to Live—and, like all of Derek Sivers’ work, it’s simple, profound, and packed with wisdom.

Derek’s philosophy? If something isn’t a “Hell Yeah!” then it should be a NO.

This book is a collection of short essays about decision-making, focus, creativity, and living with intention. It’s about eliminating distractions so you can pour your energy into the things that truly matter.

What Does “Hell Yeah or No” Actually Mean?

Derek’s famous decision-making rule is simple:

👉 If you’re not super excited about something, then don’t do it.

That means:
✔️ Say YES to things that truly excite you.
❌ Say NO to everything else.

This applies to:
✅ Business opportunities
✅ Social events
✅ Investments
✅ New projects
✅ Even relationships

Sounds easy, right? But most people struggle with this. We say yes to things out of obligation, guilt, or fear of missing out. We spread ourselves too thin, chasing "meh" opportunities instead of going all-in on the things that light us up.

Examples of “Hell Yeah or No” in Action

🚀 Work & Business – Instead of chasing every opportunity, focus on the ones that excite you. If an opportunity feels like “just another project,” say NO and free up space for something better.

🎤 Speaking Engagements – If I get asked to speak at an event, I ask myself: Does this event align with my mission? Will it energize me? If it’s not a Hell Yeah!, I pass.

💰 Investments & Side Hustles – Instead of jumping into everything that seems profitable, invest in what aligns with your passion and long-term vision.

🛫 Travel & Experiences – A Bucket List Life is about intentional experiences. Instead of traveling just for the sake of it, choose trips that truly excite you.

👥 Relationships – Surround yourself with people who uplift, inspire, and challenge you. If someone drains your energy, it might be time for a No.

📅 Time & Commitments – If you’re hesitating about a commitment, ask yourself: Would I be excited to do this tomorrow? If not, decline.

7 Takeaways from Hell Yeah or No

1. Your time and energy are your most valuable assets. Guard them fiercely.

2. Saying YES to too many things dilutes your focus and impact. If you try to do everything, you’ll end up doing nothing well.

3. It’s okay to say NO—even to great opportunities. A good opportunity can still be a distraction if it’s not in alignment.

4. If you feel "meh" about something, it’s probably a NO. Your gut instinct is usually right.

5. Minimalism applies to decisions, not just stuff. Simplify your choices and commitments so you can go all-in on what excites you.

6. Your dream life won’t happen by accident. You have to actively shape it by making deliberate, bold choices.

7. Living a Bucket List Life means choosing excitement over obligation. Don’t just fill your schedule—fill it with things that light you up.

How Hell Yeah or No Relates to Living a Bucket List Life

🔹 A Bucket List isn’t about doing EVERYTHING—it’s about doing what truly excites you.
🔹 If something isn’t a Hell Yeah!, it shouldn’t be on your list.
🔹 Every time you say NO to the wrong things, you create space for the right things.
🔹 Living with intention means prioritizing what really matters—not just what’s expected of you.

This book is simple yet powerful. It’s a reminder that our best life isn’t built on what we add—but on what we eliminate.

Stay tuned for Book 35 of 52 as I continue this adventure of learning and growth!

#BucketListLife #UltimateChallenge #52Books52Weeks

Are you saying "yes" too often and settling for less than what truly excites you ?

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