Curiosity has been one of Tycely Williams’ lifelong companions. She says she entered the world “wrapped in a blanket” of it, and after nearly three decades in philanthropy and leadership, asking thoughtful questions remains part of how she moves through the world. What has changed is her relationship with the answers.

Earlier in life, Tycely found more comfort in what could be reasoned, understood and explained. Experience has softened that need for certainty. She knows now that one good question can uncover three more, that every uncertainty does not need to be resolved immediately and that not knowing does not mean she has somehow lost her way. These days, she can find comfort in saying, “I’m not sure...let’s think about it.” As Tycely puts it, “Life has taught me that comfort and uncertainty can co-exist.”

That ease has been hard-earned by a woman who has spent nearly three decades in philanthropy, helping organizations turn big missions into resources and results. Her career has included leading teams responsible for raising and managing more than $600 million, and she now serves as CEO of Liberty Fellowship. Yet work has never been merely a collection of accomplishments for Tycely. She describes her career as a spiritual calling and remembers her younger self chasing more time at the office because the work felt interesting, exhilarating and purposeful.

She still calls the office one of her happy places. What she understands differently now is that a meaningful life can hold many happy places, and her younger self had not yet discovered the importance of making room for all of them.

A Yes of Her Own

That wider view of life has changed the way Tycely responds when opportunity comes calling. Over the past three years, she has said “No, thank you” more often, politely declining awards, recognition receptions, board nominations, lists and interview requests. It is not a rejection of achievement. Her measure of success has simply become more personal.

“I now live my life to say YES to me,” she says.

What does it look like to honor a lifetime of purpose while giving yourself permission to want more? In the complete feature, Tycely reflects on the power of protecting her yes, finding joy in the unexpected and pursuing a dream she is finally ready to bring to life.

Continue reading “A Yes of Her Own” in MonDai Magazine's 50 Over 50 anniversary issue.