Ignoring the Naysayers

Almost everything that’s changed the world in a positive way has been an unreasonable idea. It’s unreasonable, until it’s commons sense. That’s how change happens and so in order to make a difference in the world, it’s incredibly important to be able to ignore the naysayers. Some of the best and brightest from our community share their stories and advice below.

Shaquana Wise

I Persist despite everybody who hates on me because I found myself all on my own. Nobody forced me to, nobody pushed me to, nobody made me ; I actually wanted to persist and expand in ways of better development because of mental, spiritual and emotional traumas in my past. I am still learning that it is truly okay to not be okay and it is truly okay that things might not go so well or as planned. Read more>>

Cassie Rhoda

I like the word persist in this question because you really do have to be persistent in staying focused on why you are doing what you are doing when hater, nay-sayers, and so on come your way. To help me stay focused on what matters, I remind myself that…they hated Jesus, too. Jesus was the perfect, sinless Son of God that came into the world to save lost and heartbroken people not condemn them (John 3:16-17). Read more>>

Erica Sutton

I am able to keep going because I keep a positive mindset no matter what. I block out negativity. No one can do what you do, how you do it. I constantly remind myself that I am a limited edition. There’s only one me. I am a professional makeup artist located in Jackson, MS. I’ve been in this creative field for over 10 years. My business is DeSu Artistry named after my late grandmother, Della King Sutton. Read more>>

Alexa Kirkland

In life, we can often run into those that doubt our vision. I have found that simply expecting it within my journey helps me to not be distracted or disappointed by it. Through talks with myself and self development work, I choose to use this as fuel to get to where I want to be- prove them wrong, stay in your lane, and just keep going. It will be worth it- I promise! Read more>>

Aaron Jones

Knowing that what God has for me is for me. everyone’s walk in life is different, no matter the skill set or the profession. Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do ALL THINGS, through Christ, who strengthens me.” So, just because someone says no, I can’t do something, they don’t know they got a serve. It’s pretty funny sometimes, but in the end, I end up making them a believer. Even if they still hate, let me hate, and watch the money pile up lol. Read more>>

Kristin Rossi

Wow, this is such a great question. This particularly resonates with me because I have dealt with over the years a long list of haters and naysayers. Let me tell you what, they may think what they are doing is going to be hurtful and destructive to me and my business, however it only pushes me harder to do better, and to level up. Case and point:
About 7 years ago I had multiple complaints made against me on DORA, which is where we get our licenses in Colorado. Read more>>

Gabe Hagen

We’re lucky to have supportive and encouraging friends and family. No one in our circle has ever doubted our ability to build a business. It was initially an open question as to how outwardly supportive we could be of the queer community and attain success from a financial standpoint. However, a broad and enthusiastic response from the community has forever put that question to rest. Read more>>

Brittany Hicken

It’s so easy to try and please everyone, and make decisions that will make the most people happy. However, I have learned that no matter what you do someone will get upset, people will have their opinions, wish you did it differently, or dislike what you did. I think there is definitely a balance between listening to people’s opinions and advice, taking genuine constructive criticism thoughtfully, and choosing to do what you think is best for you, and what will make you the happiest and will result in the outcome you ultimately want. Read more>>

Kemi Pavlocak

This is quite the perfect question because it feels like I’ve been struggling with this for sometime. When you’re doing good especially when it’s different or disruptive you will get hate. Most times it’s so illogical too. Like why would some people hate me for keeping the only store in town open and making it look better than it has ever looked? Even after burning down. Why? It’s senseless. Read more>>

Hollis Morrissette

How do I persist? I keep it moving. Listen, the haters or doubters are in their own world so, that’s none of my business. The haters’ opinions have nothing to do with my reality. We all have our own opinions however, I mind my own business and happily make myself available to my fans. Read more>>

Nadine Somlith

We live in a generation where social media has taken over our minds, thoughts, and sight, Pretty much everything in our lives is becoming controlled by social media. Now as a business owner, my presence on social media is important as ever, but with that come the haters. It’s a lot mentally to deal with at the beginning. Read more>>

Antoine Rakestraw

To believe in oneself is the key. A confidence that you can do all things through Christ, who strengthens you. For, If you can’t believe in your own abilities, how can/will others? I’m the Master Barber and owner at The Trendy Barber LLC. The Trendy Barber is a full service barbershop that specializes in precision hair cutting and facial hair services all performed in a modern, private setting. Our attention to detail, exceptional service and hospitality we show to new and already established clientele is what sets us apart from others. Read more>>

William Deloney

I learned not to be a quitter. I also learned that people who do not see your vision and mission as you would never believe in the journey. I keep my faith in God and the purpose that He has for my life. I am the owner and designer of my clothing brand Divine Image Apparel. The story behind the brand is I wanted people to be encouraged and have something to hold onto in of world full of uncertainty. And that is their faith! Read more>>

Mallerly Z Quiroa

By not giving them the satisfaction of reacting to their own insecurities. I learned this a while back and agree. Haters don’t really hate you, they hate themselves. Why ? Because you are a reflection of what they wish they could be. They hate you for one of three reasons. 1 they see you as a threat 2 they hate themselves or 3 they want to be you. If you’re not getting hated on you’re not doing things right. Read more>>

Grecia (GEE) Beuses

People are always going to have something to say no matter what you do. Even if you are meeting society standards someone will pick something out that and say something negative about it. So might as well do what you love since they are going to talk regardless. I think the most important thing is to stay true to yourself, specially if you are not harming anyone. Read more>>

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