We hear all the time that no (as in N.O) simply stands for "Next Opportunity"
Right, sis?
But how many of us actually believe it?
Here's why I ask 👇🏾
If you've been rocking with me for a while, you'll know that I've written for Black Ballad many a time
And I recently pitched them something again
But…
Unfortunately, the first thing that I pitched was basically a no but, while waiting for their reply, I'd already started brewing and thinking about another idea
So when I got the email basically saying, "Do you know what, Nina? Not this time for that particular story."
I emailed back, like I normally do, saying "Thank you very much for letting me know;" then quickly added: "I also have xyz idea. Do you think that this is something that the community would enjoy?" Lo and behold, the answer to that was “Yes”
The lesson? Don't take nos:
Personally
As a failure
As a sign to just slink off into a hole and never try again
Half of the battle of visibility really is just showing up and persistence
More than that, though
I would say it's also just having a heart to serve e.g.
Not viewing it as being about you and your agenda, but:
"How can I help this particular platform and their people?"
Because, if that’s the case, you’ll keep seeking opportunities to contribute (even if at first you don’t succeed)
So, yeah, I thought I would share that little tidbit, both as:
Encouragement
A kick up the backside if you’ve been letting the fear of failure and/or rejection hold you back
Rejection doesn’t stop me because I don’t let it. The question is, will you?