Life can change in an instant. A single “yes” or “no,” a choice to take a step forward—or not—can send everything down a completely different path. In these remarkable stories, people made quick decisions that unexpectedly changed their lives forever.

Story 1

We were on a long 12-hour drive and nearly out of gas. My friend really needed to use the bathroom, but there were no gas stations in sight, so we took a random deserted road.

When he stepped out, he noticed something strange in a ditch: a black hoodie covering a tiny, whimpering puppy. I’d never planned on having a pet, but there was no way I could leave him.

That was two years ago, and he’s been my loyal companion ever since. I can’t imagine life without him.

Story 2

One day, I missed my usual bus and begrudgingly got on the next one, half-awake and irritated. I sat beside a woman who was sketching.

Curious, I complimented her work, and we struck up a conversation. She was an illustrator working on a children’s book, and I mentioned I wrote stories as a hobby. She asked to read one.

Two months later, we began co-writing a book. A year later, it got picked up by a small publisher. I became a published author—all because I missed my bus. © Unknown author / Reddit

Story 3

On a whim, I tweeted asking if any single ladies wanted to grab dinner. One replied. We’re now married, raising a wonderful son, and living in Australia—even though we first met in the UK. © thewrinklyninja / Reddit