Ask For What You Want and Be Prepared to Get It

Back in May I listed a few of my weaknesses as a businesswoman.  This week another big one bobbed to the surface: I suck at reaching out.  Rarely do I approach other businesses, writers and/or women I'd like to work with.

My story, of course, is that back in 2001 soon after zena moon launched I reached out to O Magazine and within the hour had every businesswoman's dream come true: A spot in Oprah's Live Your Best Life Tour gift bags, which I didn't even have to pay for.  (I'm the only person Oprah has ever done that for, so no matter how much I dislike the direction of her show last season, my gratitude and loyalty to her is boundless.)

With the Oprah nod under my belt it's not like I'm afraid of rejection.  I'm baffled exactly what holds me back, although truthfully what's more important is my burning desire and commitment to NOT hold back any longer!

Here's what's turning me around:

Last week I received email from the assistant to one of the most well-known, bestselling self-help authors around who admires my work and is interested in doing private label candles with me.  I'm THRILLED and excited and honored beyond words!  But you know what's funny?  Back in 2001 (there's that year again) I wrote but never sent a letter to this author asking whether she'd be interested in carrying my candles to sell on her website and at her events!

Synchronicity and fate is all well and good, but who knows how rich and successful our relationship might be TODAY had I followed my gut and actually reached out four years ago?!?  D'oh!

Maya Angelou wrote, "Ask for what you want and be prepared to get it."  Yep!  From now on, I commit here and now to reaching out once a week.

Comments

[alison]

Forcing myself to ask for what I need (even if I think I will probably die of embarrasment if I do) has changed my life.
I'm with you: let's make a committment to asking for what we need on a weekly basis...

[Carla]

Alison, you're on! In fact, I'm going to post mine here every Wednesday. You're welcome to share yours along with me if you're so moved. That goes for everyone. :)