The Answer Is Always No Until You Ask

While flying from London to Boston today, I took a break from writing and watched the first three episodes of Tulsa King. How have I not watched this before now? It was incredible. Sylvester Stallone has always been a favorite of mine, but he is perfect for the role of Dwight “The General” Manfredi. In one of the three episodes he told his newly hired driver, or “associate” as he was called, Tyson Mitchell (Jay Will), that “The answer is always no until you ask.” Truer words were never spoken. We can’t get to a yes without an ask. Or, as I always say: “What’s the worst thing that can happen? I get told no.” But as we were clearly reminded here, without the ask the answer was for sure no.

Even if we get a no, it is better have asked and know the outcome rather than wonder “what if.” Plus asking for what you want can lead to opportunities and advancements that we might not have gotten otherwise. It’s all about taking initiative and not being afraid of rejection.

Another thing I thought of while watching was the power of asking “why not?” Ever made someone answer that when they told you no and then they don’t have an answer? Some people just always say no. Lesson here. What if we hold ourselves accountable to know exactly why an answer is no. And what if we give an authentic answer to the question.

Bottom line: go ahead and ask!

Byron's Babbles