How Many No's Have You Collected Lately?

The Meaning of No

Rejection can sting worse than a scraped knee. In fact, brain scans show social rejection lights up the same areas as physical pain — that’s why it feels so gut-wrenching. But here’s the kicker: while a bruise might fade in days, the echo of “no” can stick around far longer if we let it.

I used to take no as a personal Yelp review on my entire existence. Sometimes I’d assume a no was coming and save everyone the trouble by not asking at all. (This is the fastest way to guarantee zero yeses.)

Two weeks ago, I decided to flip the script: collect nos like they were rare stamps. My stats? 45 nos, 2ish yeses, a few “maybe-laters,” and a handful of “we’ll get back to you.” Some look like no’s now but might just be “not yet.”

Here’s what I realized:

• A no says more about where they are than who I am.

• Asking at all is a declaration that I believe in what I’m offering — and in myself.

• And every no is a stepping stone toward a yes.
  

When we ask for business, we often feel like we’re intruding. The truth? It’s not an invasion; it’s an invitation.

So collect those nos. Stack them high. Celebrate them. Because behind every no is proof you’re brave enough to ask — and that’s always your business.