UNSTOPPABLE: HOW REJECTION FUELS SUCCESS THROUGH PERSISTENCE IN LEADERSHIP

Rejection is tough, but it’s not the end of the story. Whether you’re an author facing rejection letters or a leader overcoming setbacks, persistence is what sets success apart from failure. At Ellis Adams Group, we believe that pushing through doubt and taking the next step is essential—because the world needs what you have to offer.

A friend of mine got a rejection from a publishing company. He’s written a book and shopping the manuscript to various publishers, and just recently he got the dreaded rejection letter.

He says they’re always the same: “Thanks for the prospectus. The project doesn’t fit us but please keep writing.”

Did it sting? Yep.

Did he sit in his feelings for a little bit? Sure did.

But he can’t stay there.

There’s a book that needs to be published.

The book is about doubt—how to wrestle with it, struggle through it, and then move forward. He believes people need to read this book.

So, what has he done since that rejection letter? He’s submitted the prospectus to three more publishing companies.

If he stays down, that book will never be read.

Some people will not get the encouragement they need.

As he says, “I’m dumb enough to believe someone will publish it.”

Why do I write this?

For you. For the one who is doubting their passion or dream.

Are you down today?

Have you hit a wall on a goal you want to achieve?

Are you sitting in the dirt, feeling like a failure?

Get up.

Take one step.

Do something.

Progress isn’t made by sitting there thinking the worst. It’s made when we move forward—even when we’re fighting our greatest insecurities.

Walt Disney was denied financing for Disneyland a total of 302 times.

J.K. Rowling received 12 rejection letters before someone took a risk on her book, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

We’re not Disney.

We’re not J.K. Rowling.

But we can have their persistence.

Don’t ever give up.

When you do, dreams die.

Do something.

Fan the flame.

The world needs what you have to offer.

Persistence in leadership matters.

Intersecting life, luxury, and leadership,

CHRIS ADAMS

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