I visited lesser-known parts of Japan. The trip taught me to say ‘yes’ more.

Tracy Block traveled to Japan for the first time and visited lesser-known parts of the country. Provided by Tracy Block Tracy Block traveled to Japan for the first time, visiting the lesser-known Toyama and Ishikawa prefectures. She tried local foods, stayed in a traditional inn, and learned from artisans preserving centuries-old Japanese crafts. The trip pushed her to say "yes" to experiences outside her comfort zone. Some days, life goes your way. Other days, AI steals another client from your content marketing roster while your French bulldog is undergoing a $2,500 corneal ulcer treatment, and rent is due on the first. So when times are tough, I've found that saying "no" rolls off the tongue quite smoothly — to fancy dinners, concert tickets, and most disappointingly, international travel. That was, until an offer to visit Japan for the first time fell in my lap.