When “No” Isn’t Rejection—It’s Redirection
Michelle standing with a dear voter on election day in May 2022.
A Mastermind Moment
As part of my author journey, I joined a mastermind group with other aspiring children’s book authors. At a recent meeting, a writer shared her nervousness about reaching out to a local bookstore for a potential author event. I could feel the vulnerability behind her words because I’ve been there, too.
I told her how easy my own experience was, how supportive and receptive the bookstore had been. But I also asked a question in chat that lingered even after the conversation moved on:
“What’s the worst that could happen? That they say no?”
She didn’t respond. But I think we all knew the real answer. Because for many of us, especially those who create from the heart, a “no” can feel like something much bigger than a single moment of rejection.
The Unspoken Weight of No
Sometimes, “no” feels less like a response and more like a verdict.
“If they say no…maybe I’m not good enough.”
“If they say no…maybe this dream was foolish.”
“If they say no…maybe I was wrong to believe in myself.”
But what if “no” didn’t mean any of that?
What if it wasn’t rejection of you, but a redirection for you?
Rejection is Not the Mirror—You Are
When we root our worth in external outcomes, rejection becomes a mirror that reflects our deepest insecurities.
But what if we flip the mirror?
What if we chose to reflect on the beliefs behind our reactions instead of the reasons behind their decisions?
““What would this moment mean...if I were already rooted in my worth?””
Because you can be disappointed and still be enough.
You can be told “no” and still be on the right path.
When I Ran for Office and Lost
Years ago, I ran for public office in my city.
I had the passion, the vision, the qualifications—and I poured my whole heart into the campaign. I met with neighbors, spoke at community events, showed up fully and vulnerably.
And still…I lost.
For a while, that “no” hurt in ways I didn’t expect. It poked at old insecurities and whispered, “Maybe this isn’t your path.”
But over time, I began to see something else:
That loss was one of the greatest gifts in my growth.
It stretched me. It refined how I lead and why.
It gave me a deeper appreciation with service, community, and what it means to use your voice with integrity.
It reminded me that the goal isn’t always winning—sometimes it’s becoming.
And what I gained from that experience continues to shape who I am today.
No as Sacred Guidance
I’m learning to think of “no” less as an obstacle and more as sacred feedback, a form of guidance.
Sometimes it’s:
Not the right fit.
Not the right time.
Not the right energy match.
That doesn’t mean you’re off course.
It might mean you’re being invited to reroute…toward something more aligned, more open, more you.
Rooted and Unshakable
Imagine being so rooted in your self-worth that no circumstance can knock you off balance.
That’s not delusion. That’s devotion to your truth, your vision, and your voice.
Rejection doesn’t define us.
Redirection refines us.
What’s Your Reflection?
Has there been a time in your life when a “no” actually opened a better door?
What if the thing you thought you lost was never meant for who you are becoming?
Take a moment to reflect:
What fear does rejection stir in you?
What truth are you willing to anchor into instead?
Because here’s what I’m learning: The deeper we root into self-trust, the lighter we hold the outcomes.
