I think I’m a bit of a unicorn. Why? Because my cheesy pickup line effectiveness is 100%. In other words, the woman to whom I’m married, fell in love with my clever charm and wit from the beginning.
Okay, maybe not. But it doesn’t change the fact that I’m 1 for 1.
Rejection hurts. I may not have experienced rejection as part of my only serious romantic relationship, but I’ve been told no many times.
One summer, as I was preparing for camp, I asked ten different women to go as a sponsor, and every single one said no. We were in desperate need, and I felt helpless.
Again, let me say, rejection hurts. Rejection demeans and beats down. Rejection makes us doubt our purpose and mission.
And if you’re like me, the fear of rejection paralyzes you.
I will put off asking a question because I’m afraid the answer will be no, when in reality the longer I wait the more likely the answer will be no. Can you say self-fulfilling prophecy?
One of the things I’m learning currently, yet still struggling to put into practice, is that people are willing to help. It’s just a matter of finding the right person to help.
Sometimes a no is exactly the right answer.
That’s why, as leaders, we have to get comfortable with the answer no. I would rather have an honest “no” than a fake or resentful “yes”. Because when I find that “yes”, they’re going to go above and beyond.
When we learn to push past the fear of rejection and continually work the three questions, our leadership will continue to grow.
How about you? How are you at asking for help or involvement? Are you willing to face rejection for the sake of growth? Is anything holding you back?