As a young model, Kathy Ireland faced rejection nearly every day. Today, as a savvy businesswoman leading a billion-dollar empire, she credits those experiences with shaping her success.
"I truly believe that rejection is a gift," she shares. "I didn't recognize or appreciate it at the time, but it prepared me for the business world. When people said no or even laughed in my face, it didn't destroy me. If anything, my response was, 'Well, at least we're talking. I'll come back tomorrow—maybe your situation has changed or you're in a better mood.'"
One rejection stands out vividly. "My job as a model was basically to shut up and pose," Ireland recalls. "When I had a rare chance to speak, a critic publicly said my voice could kill small animals. At 25, I couldn't even order pizza over the phone—my high, creaky voice made people think I was a kid."
The harsh comment devastated her but proved transformative. It showed Ireland she needed to project a more mature, professional image to be taken seriously—a lesson that's fueled her career.
For high-profile figures like Ireland, criticism is constant. The key? Discern its value. "We must ask: Is it just mean, nasty junk to discard? Or, despite the ugly packaging, is there truth we can use?"
She warns against echo chambers: "Don't surround yourself with yeses. Seek people who love you enough to tell the truth and be painfully honest. If they believe in you, they'll criticize to help you grow and reach your potential."
"We're under the radar. As a private person who owns a private business, I like this anonymity."
