5 Ways to Avoid Panic and Work Through Disappointment as an Entrepreneur
I’ve been a lucky gal.
My first few clients as an independent business owner - with dreams to become my own full fledged agency one day - have been an absolute perfect fit.
I mean, really. When you believe in a client’s product, and they’re good on camera to boot? it’s magic.
When you schedule pedicures together, you know it’s love.
I had no reason to believe that finding other gigs or clients to fall in love with would be as simple. People need video and social content, right?
The problem is when you’re starting out, there are a lot of people who can do what you do. Only better. And on the backs of rainbow colored unicorns. While baking a trifle and becoming a contestant on America’s Next Top Model.
It’s tough out there, yo.
Getting snubbed for a gig you felt sure you’d be an awesome fit for feels a little bit like a break up. So, here are a few things to do instead of spiraling into self pity or doubts about your abilities as a business owner:
Throw yourself a dance party. This should always be at the top of the list. Seriously: in case of emergency, break sweat.
Look for another client in a similar sphere. Did the local clothing store make you swoon? Look for another boutique with parallel products. There are other fish in the sea, and those fish need help letting people know about their products.
Did you spend a dedicated amount of time crafting the perfect proposal? Repurpose that ish. A good idea is a good idea. One person rejecting that idea doesn’t disqualify it from awesomeness.
Remind yourself that it isn’t personal. It’s business. There could be a myriad of reasons why you were overlooked for a job that have nothing to do with your professionalism, creativity or your abilities. Do not, I repeat, do not read too much into it and start to doubt yourself. You’re an entrepreneur, for crying out loud. You don’t have time for doubt!
Keep the perspective bright like your future. Remember that plenty of successful people have faced rejection in their lives. Sometimes being told “no” means that you’re making room for a bigger and better yes in the future!
Here’s to keeping our heads high and for working (read: dancing) through disappointments that only make us stronger.