Image credit: iqoncept
Happy New Year!
It’s officially 2025, and whether you’ve set big goals, small intentions, or are just hoping to survive the first week back at work, I hope this year is off to a great start for you.
As for me, I’m kicking off the year by diving into something that’s been on my mind: the power of asking a simple question - “Why not today?”
This idea hit me while watching a clip from one of my favorite players on the Philadelphia Eagles. By now you probably know I’m a huge Eagles fan. (If not, well…now you do!) The clip featured Saquon Barkley having a quick but powerful exchange with teammate Jalen Carter, and it stuck with me.
So much so that I had to write about it.
Why Not Today?
I am a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles. They’re absolutely rocking it this season as one of the best teams in the NFL, thanks to two key factors:
- They picked up Saquon Barkley, a running back who’s having an MVP-level season.
- Their defense is phenomenal.
Recently, I came across this clip of Saquon talking to the Eagles’ best defensive player, Jalen Carter, right before a game.
If you can’t watch the clip, here’s what Saquon says:
“JC! Why not today, bruh? Make your mark, dawg.”
That’s it.
Okay, fine—it goes on for about thirty more seconds and includes some (bleeped-out) expletives, but the heart of the message is this:
“Why not today?”
Jalen Carter had a great season last year, but he didn’t start this year off as strong. But Saquon knew he had the skill he needed and just reminded him with one simple, powerful question:
Why. Not. Today?
That day, Jalen went on to have a monster game. Since then, he’s been a dominant force all season.
This clip resonates with me, not just as an Eagles fan, but as someone who spends a lot of time encouraging people to say “Yes, And!” to themselves—to step into their greatness.
Why not today?Why not “make your mark, dawg?”Why not do it right now?
More often than not, what holds us back is the little—or big—“yes, but” we say to ourselves.
Why not flip that to a “Yes, And”?
Why not take a step forward today?
Why not make your mark now, today?
Here’s how you can apply this right now:
- Take that thing you’ve been thinking about—the one you’ve been saying “yes, but” to—and ask yourself, “Why not today?” Then, say “yes, and” to taking one small step toward it.
- Think of someone in your life—a coworker, a friend, a family member—who needs to hear this. Just like Saquon said it to Jalen, who can you ask, “Why not today?” Who can you nudge toward saying “yes, and” to themselves?
It’s simple. Say it to yourself. Ask it of someone else. Say “yes, and,” and take action.
We all have greatness inside of us. That includes you and everyone you know.
So, let me ask you:
Why not today?
P.S. While we’re on the topic of saying “Yes, And!” to ourselves, this week’s podcast dives even deeper into overcoming those pesky “Yes, Buts.” If you’re ready to start the year strong, give it a listen: Listen to 'Say Yes, And! to Your Persistent Yes, Buts'
Cheers to an amazing 2025—let’s make it a year of action, growth, and stepping into greatness.