Everyone dislikes rejection. So the thought of “rejection therapy” may seem less than enticing at first. But when I came across this idea, I immediately thought of how useful this could be for solopreneurs. How so? By helping us learn to make the big asks!
Learning to Love “No”
In a recent podcast episode, Hillary Hendershott featured Alex Grodnik, an investment banker turned entrepreneur who discussed “Rejection Therapy”. His therapy practice is simple: every day he asks for something and tries to get a “no” answer. This regular practice desensitizes him to rejection, and makes it easier for him to ask for what he wants. I think this is a great exercise for any of us: we all need a little help in asking for what we want!
Make the Ask
Rejection therapy is really about encouraging you to make the ask, and remember that the worst case scenario is hearing “no”. Once you’re desensitized to that outcome, it doesn’t feel nearly as scary as it used to! What are some things related to your business that you’ve been wanting to ask for? Maybe this issue comes up for you when you’re negotiating your rates, or looking for new clients, or cutting a deal with someone. Think about the big asks you’ve been needing to make. What if you just made them?
My best ask ever was getting to visit bead makers in Murano, Italy, when I was running my jewelry business. I was planning a trip to Italy, when I realized I would be very near the studio that the beads I used to make my jewelry came from. I had practiced bead making for a little while at that point, and my heart leapt at the thought of getting to visit and observe master bead makers. Before the trip, I reached out to them and they enthusiastically encouraged me to come to their studio. I even got to use their equipment and make beads along with them! If I hadn’t asked, I wouldn’t have had that experience. Making the ask made all the difference.
Can you think of a time when you made a big ask that worked out well? Think of the positive impact it made on your life. Asking is important! I encourage you to try out rejection therapy and work on asking for what you want and need. It will only help your business, and help you achieve your dreams! If you find you need some guidance or coaching, check out my packages under my Services page.
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Angela
Image Sources: Katerina Radvanska, Jeremy Galliani
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