Let Your Yes Be Yes

If your word doesn't mean something, neither does your ambition.

Show Notes

In this episode of Shark Theory, Baylor shares a simple story with a powerful lesson.

After an incredible experience at a new Italian steakhouse in Dallas, Baylor told the hostess and waitress he would leave them a review. They had gone above and beyond. The service was excellent. He meant it when he said it.

But he forgot.

At 2:30 in the morning, he woke up remembering the promise he had made. Most people would roll over and say, "I'll do it tomorrow." But that wasn't what he said he would do.

So he got up and left the review.

Not to be dramatic. Not for applause. But because your word has to mean something.

When you promise something, you're not promising to speak. You're promising to act. The etymology of "promise" means to send forth. To move something forward. To take action. A promise is an extension of your integrity.

In a world where people are quick to complain but slow to praise, quick to agree but slow to follow through, your consistency becomes your competitive advantage.

Let your yes be yes. Let your no be no.

If you know you're not going to do something, say no. Don't delay it. Don't soften it. Don't string someone along to avoid discomfort. Delaying the truth only compounds the disappointment.

When your words align with your actions, you create peace for the people around you. They don't have to follow up. They don't have to double-check. They don't have to stress. They know if you said it, it's handled.

And in business, in leadership, in relationships, that reliability puts you ahead of most people without learning a single new skill.

Success doesn't always come from complexity. Sometimes it comes from simply doing what you said you would do.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• Why your word is a reflection of your integrity

• The true meaning of making a promise

• How inconsistency quietly damages trust

• Why "maybe" often causes more harm than "no"

• How reliability creates peace for others

• The simple habit that separates you from 95% of people

Featured Quote

"If you say you're going to do it, do it. Your word is your brand."