"Because I Said So!"

Because I Said So (And Other Nonsense Answers You Should Never Accept)

Alright, we’ve all been there. You pour your heart into explaining a genius idea, or you get up enough courage to ask for a raise, or you’re about to close a deal, and then… BAM. You’re hit with a “No,” or worse, the big shutdown: “Because I said so.” You’re left sitting there like a goof, wondering if you just got an adult version of a timeout. WTH?! Here’s the thing… If there’s one question that can flip that sad “No” into a conversation worth having, it’s the word “Why?”

Yes, “Why?” It’s the difference between being a wet blanket who takes no for an answer and being an absolute legend who keeps digging for gold. Believe me, you want to be the legend.

Little Jerry: The Original “Why?” Machine

Let me take you back to my childhood. An era known to my parents as the endless inquisition. Little me was on a relentless mission to understand everything; Why is the sky blue? Why can’t I kick my sister out of my room? Why do I have to eat green beans(Still hate these) when there’s perfectly good donut on the counter? My parents probably wondered why they ever taught me to talk. But here’s what I learned early: “Because I said so” is not an answer…It’s a copout. And the second you ask “Why?”, people are left on the hook to actually explain themselves. It’s like a truth serum, but way cheaper.

Now, grown-up me is here to tell you that “Why?” is a game-changer in business, too. So, let’s dive into why asking it can turn “No” into, “Yeah I got this”.

1. “Because I Said So” is Code for “I Have No Good Reason”

Let’s be real: “Because I said so” is just a fancy way of saying, “I don’t really have a reason, but let’s pretend I do.” It’s the ultimate dodge, and they’re betting you’ll just smile, nod politely and walk away. But that’s not you. No way. Next time your someone says, “We’re going with another vendor” or “Your idea isn’t in the budget,” just ask, “Hey, can you tell me why? I’d really love to understand.”

Not only does this put the pressure back on them to give you something real, but it also shows you care enough to ask. Now if they don’t actually have a good reason? Well, let’s just say it’ll be obvious.

2. “Why?” Reveals Blind Spots (Yours and Theirs)

You’re up for a promotion. You’ve worked your @$$ off, delivered some epic results, and even gave up some weekends. But then, out of nowhere, you get passed over. If you just accept the “No,” you’re missing a treasure trove of info. Maybe they thought you needed a specific skill, or maybe they just didn’t notice all the stuff you’ve been doing because they’re running around like a chicken with it’s head cut off.

When you ask “Why?”, you’re not just taking control… You’re giving yourself a map to improvement. Now if they can’t give you a clear answer? That tells you something really important. You may need to go find someone who appreciates your awesomeness.

3. Curiosity Isn’t Just Endearing… It’s How You Get Remembered

So people say they like curiosity, but what they actually like is someone who wants to get better. Imagine a client goes with another vendor, and instead of you quietly disappearing, you ask, “Could you share what tipped the scales? I’d love to know what I can improve.” Suddenly, you’re not just another vendor… You’re someone who cares about growth. That’s rare, and people remember rare.

Plus, you’d be surprised; sometimes that “Why?” might even get them to reconsider. Plenty of “No’s” out there are just “Yeses” that need a little more info to better understand.

4. The Best Part? Sometimes “No” Isn’t Really No

Let’s get real; most people hit you with a “No” or “Because I said so” because they’re not entirely sure themselves. They’re busy, or they haven’t had their second cup of coffee, or they’ve skimmed your proposal while nursing a hangover from last night’s rager. So asking them “Why?” lets them hear their own reason out loud. Sometimes that’s all they need to realize you’re onto something.

I can’t count how many times I’ve asked “Why?” only to get a, “Well, actually, maybe we should take another look.” Turns out, that extra bump is all they needed to come around.

Be Legendary, Not a “No”-Taker

When you hear “Because I said so,” “No,” or “We’re going in a different direction,” remember this; that’s not the end of the conversation. It’s barely even the start. By asking “Why?” you’re showing that you care, that you’re curious, and that you’re not just another face in the crowd. You’re someone who’s here to grow, improve, and maybe even help them see something they missed.

So, take a page out of little Jerry’s playbook. Next time someone shuts you down with a copout, lazy answer, don’t let them off the hook. Smile, ask “Why?”, and keep pushing. Because when you make “Why?” your new go-to, every “No” becomes an opportunity waiting to be discovered.