6 Easy Steps to Finding Career Success

We all know what it’s like to want to succeed, but feel as though we’re just not cutting it. Here are six proactive things you can do to get over your fear of being rejected and focus on building momentum in the long term.

Step 1: Get used to hearing "no"

Don’t take things personally. Rejection is part of the normal rhythm of a career. People say "no" all the time, for a wide variety of reasons. It’s not all about you!

Step 2: Turn a negative into a positive

Sometimes not getting what you want is for the best. You may be disappointed now, but you never know how you’ll feel in a few months or years. Not getting that promotion or that new job might actually be the best thing for you. Give your future self the chance to be grateful.

Step 3: Use rejection as a reason to take more risks

The trick to getting over rejection is actually getting rejected more. You’ll never get a "yes" if you don’t ever ask the question. After that, it’s just a numbers game! Getting used to the "nos" will make the time between the ‘yeses" all the sweeter.

Step 4: Show off your drive and ambition

Be proactive. Focus on the things you can do to improve your odds. Ask for leads, cross things off your to-do list, and stay ready. Make as many pitches and proposals as you can. You’ll start to notice that every rejection is still a stepping stone to your ultimate goal!

Step 5: Pay attention to the slightest progress

Making daily progress is immensely satisfying, particularly when your work and goals are meaningful. And it pays off. Behavioral psychology research suggests that improving every single tiny thing by the tiniest 1% can make an enormous difference over time. Consider every increment a building block for building your best and brightest future.

Step 6: Take small steps towards your goals

Success cannot happen overnight. It’s important to take small steps in the right direction, and to keep taking those steps. Make a daily commitment to yourself, and continue choosing to work towards your goals. You’ll get there much faster and enjoy the road a whole lot more.