The Power of "Let Them"
When I launched Relentless Consulting eight months ago, I knew putting myself out there would invite both support and criticism.
What I didn't expect was how this journey would teach me one of the most powerful lessons in business and life: the art of letting go.
This week, I faced that moment every entrepreneur dreads – the sting of public criticism.
My first reaction?
Pure Mike 1.0 mode.
You know, that instinctive urge to prove everyone wrong, to defend every achievement, to justify every success.
But after a night of reflection (and honestly, some tossing and turning), I discovered something I call the "Let Them" theory.
Here's the raw truth.
As entrepreneurs, we take more risks in a month than most people take in a lifetime.
We put ourselves out there, we fail publicly, we succeed publicly, and yes – we get criticized publicly.
The voices that try to tear us down rarely come from a place of love.
Instead, they spring from jealousy, personal struggles, or simply the desire to see others fall.
So here's what I've learned, and what I want you to remember the next time you face criticism:
When they judge you, let them.
While they're busy critiquing your journey from the sidelines, you're in the arena, building something meaningful. Their judgment says more about their fears than your potential. Remember: Critics write history, but entrepreneurs make it.
When they choose someone else, let them.
I've learned that begging for business isn't just undignified – it's unnecessary. The right clients, the ones who truly resonate with your mission, will find their way to you. They'll choose you not because you're the only option, but because you're the right option.
When they unfollow, let them.
Your message isn't meant for everyone, and that's okay. In fact, it's perfect. If your content doesn't ruffle a few feathers, you're probably not saying anything worth saying. Let them scroll past – your tribe will stay.
When they watch in silence, let them.
The lurkers, the quiet observers – let them be. Some of your biggest supporters might never like a post or leave a comment, but they're taking notes, learning, growing. Your impact often reaches further than your analytics show.
When they dismiss your business as "just a hobby," let them.
Small minds struggle to comprehend big moves. While they're laughing at your dreams, you're building your empire. Their inability to see your vision doesn't make it any less real.
When they doubt you, let them.
Nothing fuels success quite like the quiet determination to prove doubters wrong. Use their skepticism as kindle for your fire. Let it warm your resolve, not burn your spirit.
When they copy you, let them.
They can mimic your methods, but they can't duplicate your essence. The recipe isn't the secret sauce – YOU are. Your unique experiences, perspectives, and values can't be replicated.
When they call you "lucky," let them.
We know the truth. Luck didn't wake up at 5 AM. Luck didn't push through the self-doubt. Luck didn't handle the rejection, face the fears, or make the sacrifices. That was all you, showing up day after day with relentless determination.
Here's what I want you to take away from this: The entrepreneurial journey isn't just about building a business – it's about building yourself. Every criticism, every setback, every moment of doubt is an opportunity to strengthen your resolve.
The next time you're facing self-doubt or criticism, remember this…
Let them do them.
Your only obligation is to stay true to your vision, your values, and your journey.
Because at the end of the day, the only voice that truly matters is the one inside your head telling you to keep going, keep building, keep believing.
To your relentless success,
mm
P.S. If you're navigating your own challenges with criticism or self-doubt, reply with "LET THEM" – let's talk about turning those obstacles into opportunities.