How Being Negative Helped Me Stay in Wholesaling Business
People love to talk about “positive thinking.”“Stay optimistic!” “Visualize success!” “Trust the process!” That might sound good on a motivational poster, but in real-world business — especially in real estate wholesaling — it’s the fastest way to burn out. The Truth About This Business Wholesaling isn’t for the faint of heart. You make thousands of calls, get hung up on hundreds of times, chase down dead leads, and deal with sellers who promise one thing at breakfast and completely flip by dinner — even after signing a contract. If you walk into that kind of environment expecting sunshine and success, you’re going to crumble. Because the reality is, disappointment is the default. Deals fall apart. People ghost you. Paperwork vanishes. And that’s on a good week. Why Negativity Keeps Me in the Game I don’t wake up expecting good news.I expect the worst — and because of that, I’m never disappointed. When a deal falls through, I already assumed it might. When a seller flakes, I’m not shocked — I’m prepared. That mindset keeps me steady. It keeps my emotions out of it, and that’s what lets me keep grinding while others burn out chasing “positivity.” Being skeptical isn’t being bitter; it’s being realistic. Every contract, every call, every lead — I assume there’s a 90% chance it won’t work out. So when one does work, I’m pleasantly surprised, not emotionally drained. The Danger of “Positive Thinking” Positive thinking tells you to keep your hopes high.But when your expectations are sky-high and reality keeps punching you in the mouth, you start to lose faith — in the business, in yourself, in everything. That’s why so many people quit wholesaling after three months.They thought every call was going to be the one. They thought this business was quick money and easy deals. It’s not. It’s rejection on repeat — and if you don’t have thick skin (and a little pessimism), you’ll tap out fast. My “Negative” Formula for Success 1. Expect the worst.Assume every deal will collapse until it closes and the check clears. 2. Plan for problems.When something goes wrong (and it will), you’re ready — not emotional. 3. Detach from results.Make your calls, follow your system, but don’t obsess over one lead. Most won’t work. 4. Celebrate small wins.Because when your baseline is low, every success feels huge.