Keep Going: The Power of Resilience in a World Full of "No's"

Keep Going: The Power of Resilience in a World Full of "No's"

I’ve always admired stories about resilience—the kind that shake you to the core and remind you why giving up is never an option. One of my favourites comes from Bill Gates, the tech giant whose name is synonymous with success. Gates once shared how he presented his vision to over 1,200 people. Imagine the hope he had every time he walked into a room, armed with his plan, his passion, his belief that this was going to work.

Out of those 1,200 people, 900 said no. No. Let that sink in. 900 rejections.

But Gates kept going.

From the remaining 300 who said yes, only 85 actually showed up. That’s a steep drop, isn’t it? And out of those 85, only 35 were truly serious about his idea. But here’s the kicker: those 35 led him to 11 people who changed his life forever. Those 11 believed in his vision and helped him become a millionaire.

It’s a powerful story, not because it’s about money, but because it’s about perseverance. Gates didn’t stop when the first 900 slammed the door in his face. He didn’t stop when he saw empty chairs at meetings. He didn’t stop when most of the 35 walked away. He just kept going.

A Lesson Learned Over 30 Years

As someone who has spent over 30 years in recruitment, I’ve seen this play out time and time again. Thousands of people have walked through interview doors with their hopes high, only to be met with a “no.” The pain of rejection is real—it stings, it bruises your confidence, and it makes you question if you’re good enough.

But here’s the truth: rejection is just someone else’s opinion. It’s not a verdict on your worth, your potential, or your ability to succeed. If you let a single “no” define you, you’re not living your life—you’re living theirs.

Over the years, I’ve worked with candidates who have faced setback after setback. But the ones who succeed, the ones who go on to find not just a job but a career that lights them up, are the ones who learn to take rejection on the chin and move forward. They know that every “no” gets them closer to their “yes.”

My Own “No’s”

I’m no stranger to rejection myself. I’ve built businesses from the ground up, and trust me, not everyone was a cheerleader for my vision. I’ve had ideas dismissed, pitches ignored, and doors shut in my face. But here I am, 30 years later, running businesses that have helped thousands of people, leading teams that inspire me every day, and striving to make a difference.

The secret? I didn’t stop. When one door closed, I knocked on the next. And the next. And the next.

Relating It to You

If you’re reading this, maybe you’re considering a career change. Maybe you’ve sent out dozens of applications and heard nothing back. Maybe you’ve sat through an interview that felt like a disaster. Maybe you’re scared to put yourself out there again.

I get it. But let me tell you something: you are more than one person’s opinion of you.

When you apply for a new job, you’re taking a risk. You’re putting yourself out there, vulnerable and hopeful. Not everyone will say yes. Not every company will see what you bring to the table. But that doesn’t mean you stop trying. The right opportunity is out there, waiting for you to find it.

The Power of Resilience

Think back to Bill Gates and his 900 rejections. Think of the thousands of candidates I’ve seen who were told “no” before they finally heard “yes.” Think of your own potential and the life you could create if you just keep going.

The next interview, the next application, the next connection—it could be the one that changes everything. But you’ll never know if you give up.

So, here’s my challenge to you: don’t stop. Don’t let someone else’s “no” define your story. Write your own. Keep showing up, keep learning, and keep believing in yourself. The only way to fail is to quit.

Your “yes” is out there. Go and get it.

 Mark Goode

CEO Inspired Recruitment

Mark Goode is the CEO of The Inspired Recruitment Group which originated with the inception of Inspired Selections a recruitment agency primarily focused on recruitment in the optical industry before branching out into audiology and pharmaceutical recruitment. New optical opportunities are featured daily here or if you're a business, looking for help with your recruitment needs, get in touch here