By Mark Silver

Every so often some brave soul emails me a request like one I received recently. “I don’t know you. I love your work and respect what you’re doing. I finally drummed up the nerve to reach out because I’m really stuck! Can you help promote my event/product to your readers?” (I paraphrased.)

First off, I want to honor anyone who does this. The email I sent back thanked her deeply for finding the courage to ask for help, to reach out beyond what was comfortable, and let me know that she needed help.

It’s an admirable quality, and the ability and willingness to ask for help will take you far. I might go so far as to say it’s the number one success indicator in my book.

However, at the same time I thanked her, I also had to say no.... More...