Often when you pitch, it’s not the idea itself that leads to a rejection or a win – it’s how you present it.

In the media and advertising industry, we hear the term ‘servicing’ far too often. ‘Good servicing’ usually translates to responding promptly to clients, clearly addressing their needs, and flawless execution.

On the flip side, ‘serving’ a client sets a totally different standard.

Let me tell you an amazing real-life story to illustrate my point!

At work, we may not know what to do and clearly would benefit from some help, yet we’re reluctant to ask for it. Instead, we spend hours trying to solve it all by ourselves and eventually suffer in silence. We fear that people would judge us as stupid, weak, needy and incompetent, especially in a competitive work environment - when really, there’s no shame in asking for help when we need it.

My friend once told me off for rehashing an incident that happened years ago, “Stop it! How many years have you held on to this? If you want to be known as a reliable leader of your community, stop blaming and start taking responsibility for your decisions. Holding on to this grudge is your choice.”

It was a much-needed slap in the face.

Because our feelings are never a good gauge for reality. Our emotions can easily cloud our judgement.

Here’s a framework to sort out your emotions.

It all begins with an idea.

It all begins with an idea.