Question

your ideas won't always be popular so it's important that you learn how to deal with denial/rejection from other people

Answer 1

You’re pitching that shiny new idea to your boss or a client. Maybe you’re sure they’ll like it, or maybe you know it’ll be a hard sell.

And then comes that first hint of an objection: a skeptical or dismissive remark, possibly phrased as a question. You can see the whole plan collapsing.

Take a breath, and then do this.

PRESS PAUSE

When someone objects to an idea you’ve proposed–even if you haven’t even finished presenting it–don’t rush to respond. If you’re standing, walk slowly to the other side of the room. If sitting, scribble in your notepad or take a sip of water. Exhale. These valuable seconds may seem short, but they can help you reduce your stress and defensiveness as you collect yourself.

What’s more, your pause might give the skeptic time to jump in with explanations or advice, taking the heat off you temporarily before re-entering the fray. That’s what happened to Ed Collevecchio, owner of Creative Associates, when a decision-maker objected to the voiceover on a video his firm was developing for the client.

AGREE

You don’t have to agree with the skeptical or dismissive remark itself, but it’s smart to recognize the concern behind it as valid. Empathize. Say something like, “I understand why you might feel that way,” or “I see how that might be something you’re concerned about.”

ASK TO HEAR MORE

If somebody you’re trying to win over to your idea expresses doubt, chances are they need more information to see your side of things. That’s a pretty good sign that it goes both ways, though. So ask for help understanding their worries: “Could you tell me more about the problems you see with the photography?” or, “When you say your goals aren’t being met here, can you explain for me where you think it moves away from your needs?”

Answer 2

Dealing with denial or rejection from other people can be challenging, but it is an essential skill to develop, especially when your ideas may not always be popular. Here are some strategies to help you navigate these situations:

1. Understand that it's not personal: When your ideas are rejected, it's important to remember that it doesn't necessarily reflect your worth or abilities. Different people have different perspectives and preferences, and their rejection may stem from various reasons unrelated to you personally.

2. Seek feedback and learn from it: Instead of dwelling on the rejection, try to gather constructive feedback from those who rejected your ideas. This feedback can provide valuable insights and help you improve your work in the future. Be open to constructive criticism and use it as an opportunity for growth.

3. Remember your purpose: Stay focused on your goals and objectives. Remind yourself why you believe in your ideas and the impact they can have. This will give you the motivation to persist and continue working towards your vision, even in the face of rejection.

4. Surround yourself with support: Build a network of supportive individuals who believe in you and your ideas. Seek out mentors, friends, or colleagues who can provide encouragement and guidance during challenging times. Having a strong support system can help you bounce back from rejection and keep you motivated.

5. Learn from failure: Rejection and denial are part of the learning process. Embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Use setbacks as stepping stones to refine your ideas and strategies. Remember that many successful individuals have faced rejection before achieving their goals.

6. Develop resilience: Cultivate resilience by practicing self-care, maintaining a positive mindset, and adopting a growth mindset. Resilience will help you bounce back from rejection and stay focused on your goals.

7. Keep trying: Don't let rejection discourage you from pursuing your ideas. Keep trying, iterating, and refining your work. Sometimes, rejection can lead to unexpected opportunities or new directions. Stay persistent and believe in yourself and your ideas.

Remember, dealing with rejection is a skill that develops over time. By adopting these strategies and maintaining a positive mindset, you can navigate rejection and continue to pursue your ideas, even when they may not be popular.