The Dark Side

The Power of Why Not ™ is a power within you.

Like other forces in the Universe, it has a light side and a dark side. The dark side is when it is used as a manipulative question. Be cautious of anyone who dares you or tries to temp you into doing something you know is wrong by saying, "Why Not?" The answer to that is usually, "Because . . .I said, 'NO'" or, "Because . . . it's wrong!" Trust your instincts, if it feels wrong, it usually is. Learn personal safety techniques and how to set effective boundaries.

Sometimes the dark side can even come from within us. That small voice tempting us to do something wrong. But if you listen hard enough, there is another voice that reflects your values and good conscience.

Actions motivated by anger, fear, jealousy, or despair are not taken with capacity for good judgment. If you feel overwhelmed by any of these emotions take time to reflect the best course of action. If you can not escape these emotions, talk to a friend. If that doesn't help, consult a professional organization. You are important. Your welfare and future are important.

The Power of Why Not ™ is about taking risks. Often when you take a chance in life, you find the biggest rewards. But there is a difference between taking a risk and being reckless. Knowing the difference involves judgment and values.

For some people, parachuting is an acceptable risk. The thrill of flying though the air and the resulting rejuvenation of feeling alive is worth the risk to them. However, those that take the plunge would be fool-hardy to jump out of the plane without the proper training or equipment.

Though not life threatening, other risks can be just as scary. Should you try for that new job? Should you ask him out on a date? Should you buy that new house? The answers lie in what you want to gain in life. What do you value? If taking the risk means that you might get closer to your life goals, Go for it! Why Not! Two rules of thumb, if the venture involves recklessly risking life and limb (yours or others), or is illegal, then it is the dark side trying to seduce you.

If you take a risk, you might fail, you say? Of course you might. We learn by our failures. Failure is a part of life. Your true character will shine in the way you live through failure and come back to tackle the task once again. Some of the greatest achievers have also been the greatest failures.

Examples:

• - Thomas Edison failed over a thousand times before he found the one filament material that would make an electric light bulb shine
• - John Elway has been sacked more than any other quarterback, yet he successfully led his team to back-to-back Superbowl wins.

The difference that made these people great is that after failing, they didn't give up. They picked themselves up and said, 'Why Not' try again.

Your Power of Why Not ™ is in you. It comes from your heart and your values. You alone possess the Power to use 'Why Not' to improve yourself and improve the world.