Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland

by Kristi Noem

The words we speak over people or into situations can often have a huge impact. They affect our perceptions, our self-esteem, and even our motivation to tackle everyday life or challenges. Why not approach every person and situation with an optimistic attitude and a positive declaration?

“Kristi, say yes as much as you can—because so many times as a mom you have to say no.”

I believe that saying yes can change your life.

Say yes to new opportunities. You don’t have to do them forever, but there may be one new experience that gives you the opportunity to find the purpose of your life you have always been searching for.

I had been raised to believe that you don’t just complain about things, you fix them.

Running for local office is just like saying to all your friends and neighbors, “What do you really think of me?”

(A few of my favorites include “You can’t polish a turd,” “Even steers try,” and “Trust me, you’re wrong.” There are others, but they’re not things you put in print!)

If you want to change people’s lives, you first have to care about people’s lives.

“No one is going to respect you until you look like you respect yourself,”