Don’t Be Afraid to Hear ‘No’

If there's one thing I've learned on my journey as an entrepreneur, it's this: don't let the fear of hearing "no" hold you back.

I've always been someone who loves pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities. But I am also a people pleaser and a "kind-of" perfectionist. Which means my boundary-pushing tendencies and other tendencies are often at odds. 

I have the desire to push things to the edge, but then wonder "what if people think I am crazy" or "what if they don't like me" or ... "What if the answer is No".

But my dad's wise words always ring in my ears: "If you don't ask the question, the answer is always no." That simple yet profound advice has become my mantra, pushing me to be fearless in asking for what I want. So much so, I consider it one of my superpowers. 

I can't help but chuckle at some of the audacious questions I've asked:

• "Can I really quit my job and make Avenue Equestrian a thing?"

• "Do you think Crosby is a good fit for our family?"

• "Do you think I can give Donny the career he deserves? Do you think I can buy him?"

• "Do you want to work together?

These questions may seem bold or even crazy to some, but they've led to incredible outcomes and opportunities I wouldn't have had if I let the fear of "no" dictate my actions.

Go out there and get it