What to do when you hear "no" or experience rejection in your business
Nov 25, 2024
Let’s talk about something we all face in entrepreneurship but rarely discuss openly: rejection. It’s not fun, it stings, and if we’re being honest, it can sometimes make us question everything we’re doing.
But here’s the truth: When you choose the entrepreneurial path, you’re also choosing a path where rejection is inevitable. You’re going to hear “no” more times than you can count. The question isn’t if rejection will happen—it’s how you handle it when it does.
I was inspired to record an episode on this topic after receiving a DM from a member of our This Mother Means Business community. She told me about a tough day—a big client canceled their contract, and she was spiralling, making it all mean something about her. Sound familiar? If it does, I see you because I’ve been there too.
Rejection Feels Personal—But It Doesn’t Have to Be
When you pour your heart into your business, it’s hard not to take rejection personally. You’ve built something from scratch, and every “no” can feel like a punch to the gut.
I remember back when I first bought my CrossFit gym. I was so excited to take it over and make it my own, but those first few months were brutal. Members were leaving because I was making changes, and every cancellation email felt like a personal attack. I cried, I doubted myself, and I wondered if I’d made a huge mistake.
But looking back, I can see that those moments of rejection weren’t failures—they were opportunities. They taught me how to build resilience and adjust my approach. They helped me realize that rejection is rarely about you. It’s often just a natural part of the journey.
Here’s How I’ve Learned to Handle Rejection
1. See Rejection as Redirection
Here’s the thing: Every “no” is just feedback, a chance to pivot, and an opportunity to align more closely with where you’re supposed to be.
When something doesn’t go the way you hoped—whether it’s losing a client or being turned down for a big opportunity—ask yourself:
- What can I learn from this?
- How can I use this experience to refine my offers, my messaging, or my process?
Sometimes, a “no” is just making room for a better “yes.”
2. Get Curious, Not Critical
Instead of spiralling into negative self-talk (hello, “I’m the worst” or “Why does this always happen to me?”), approach rejection with curiosity. Treat it like an experiment.
Ask yourself:
- Why did this happen?
- What adjustments can I make?
- How can I improve moving forward?
Rejection isn’t failure—it’s feedback. And feedback is gold when you’re trying to grow.
3. Stay Rooted in Your “Why”
When rejection feels overwhelming, reconnect with your bigger purpose. Why did you start this business? Who are you serving?
For me, my “why” is about building a meaningful, impactful business that serves others while creating the life I want for my family. Keeping that front and center helps me stay grounded, even when things don’t go as planned.
Rejection Isn’t the End of the Road
Rejection sucks—there’s no sugarcoating that. But it’s also part of the process. Oprah was rejected. Michael Jordan didn’t make his high school basketball team. J.K. Rowling was turned down by countless publishers before Harry Potter became a global phenomenon.
If you’re in a season of rejection right now, I want you to know this: You’re not alone. Every rejection is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your approach. It’s not about you failing—it’s about finding what works, who your ideal clients are, and how to better serve them.
So, the next time you hear “no,” take a deep breath, get curious, and remember that rejection is just part of the entrepreneurial journey. Every “no” might just be paving the way for your next big “yes.”
You’ve got this.
