Eva's Notes: Why We Say Yes
A newsletter about writing, art and living more creatively
I've got a question I encourage you to keep in mind this week: why am I saying yes to this?
Whether it's a social event, an extra gig or an ask from a friend, we often get bombarded with questions that are variations of "will you come to this?" or "will you be there?" or "can you do this for me?"
Sometimes we are afraid to say no because we fear we will lose that friendship, lose that chance, lose that opportunity to advance our career.
And I know often we need to say yes: for money, for our sanity. But how many times did you wish (outside of immediate necessity) that you had said no? How many times do you end up hanging out by the food table (my fave spot) at a party, anxious because what you really needed to do was stay home and get some me time? How about the time you took on an extra assignment, but spread yourself so thin that you didn't get enough sleep that week and almost put your cellphone in the fridge? (Just me?)
I've been listening to quite a few episodes of the Dear Sugars episode which I highly recommend and the episodes on the Power of No really got to me. Oprah offers her wisdom (priceless as usual), along with the hosts. And the biggest thing I took away was: WHY are you saying yes? Is it a good reason? Does it make sense? Will you regret it later? Does it serve you?
Would love to hear your thoughts on this, as it's something I often grapple with.
xoxo,
Your favorite small but feisty writer
Eva
Banner design by Ludi Leiva ✨
Recent Work
Side Hustle
For Business Insider, I talked about what it's like to balance a full-time job and a side hustle. Here's what you should keep in mind if you're thinking about it!
Tax Season
Speaking of career stuff, I talk a little bit about filing my taxes and how I've improved the process over the years. 'Tis the season, which we all dread.
ICYMI
I'm highlighting female artists all month for Women's History Month on my Insta. One female artist a day, including ones I want to research further.
What I'm Reading
Brazilian Food Bridges One Woman's Memories of Home and Her New Life in America by Jessica Flores via NextGen Radio
For Trans Angelenos, a Job Fair for Gender-Diverse People Can Be More than a Place to Find Work by Kate Sosin via LA Mag
Books:
Hollywood Notebook by Wendy C. Ortiz // a great reflection on heartbreak, writing, Los Angeles
Locas by Yxta Maya Murray // a fictional but visceral look at Echo Park, girl gangs and gender roles
What I'm Listening to: Baby Snatcher on Criminal (CW: family trauma)
Quote of the Week
"Whatever happens to you belongs to you. Make it yours. Feed it to yourself even when it feels impossible to swallow. Let it nurture you, because it will."
— Cheryl Strayed
