Dealing with rejection of any kind can be quite challenging. If you want to learn how to cope with rejection, you have come to the right place.
Learn the different stages of rejection and how to move beyond that feeling.
What Is Rejection?
Rejection is when someone says ‘no’ to you or doesn’t include you. It can happen with friends, romantic partners, or at work. It’s normal to be sad, confused, or even a bit angry when you feel rejected.
Rejection hurts so much because our brains are wired to want to be part of a group. When rejection comes your way, it can be devastating.
Brain imaging research has shown that the brain handles physical pain and the feeling of rejection quite similarly.
The Impact Of Rejection
Let’s walk through the typical feelings you might encounter when you get rejected and the five stages of the process. It is not necessary for everyone to encounter every stage.
Denial
The initial reaction to rejection is denial. You may not believe what is happening. It’s a normal first reaction when things don’t go as planned.
Anger
Rejection hurts. After you feel the sting of rejection, you may begin to get angry. This emotional reaction can manifest strongly, especially if you get rejected for something you care a lot about.
Bargaining
Next, you might try to regain control of the situation. You think that the situation is still salvageable, and the person who rejected you can change their mind. It’s a way of looking for solutions, which is often a positive step.
Sadness
It’s important to allow yourself to feel this part of the process. Negative emotions will flow through you, but it is important to exercise self-care and not overthink.
Acceptance
The cycle ends when you come to terms with the rejection. At this stage, you are able to accept your situation and can bounce back.
The Fear Of Rejection
Getting rejected for anything can cause a fear of rejection to develop, where you become withdrawn and avoid confrontations in order to avoid rejection. You don’t take risks as you don’t want to get hurt again.
This is an unhealthy habit and can lead you to miss potential new opportunities. You develop a feeling of low self-worth and have trouble expressing your feelings.
How to Cope With Rejection
So, you’ve been rejected. Now what? It’s time to pick yourself up and keep going! Here are some tips that can help you identify how to handle rejection.
It’s Not Just You
Rejection can hurt, but that harsh reality is that it is part of life. From famous actors to successful business people, everyone has experienced rejection at some point. Remember, rejection is a normal part of life that happens to everyone.
It’s Okay To Feel Bad
It’s natural to feel the pain of rejection. You might feel sad, angry, or even a bit lost, and that’s perfectly normal. Allow yourself some time to process your emotions. It’s a healthy part of the healing process.
Talk About It
Keeping things bottled up inside can make you feel worse. Talking can be a powerful way to release your emotions and gain some perspective.
Share your feelings with someone you trust, such as a friend or family member, and open up about what you’re going through. You can also seek professional help.
Be Nice To Yourself
Treat yourself with kindness and give yourself time to overcome the emotional impact of rejection. Self-blaming is the worst thing you can do.
Self-compassion is key to overcoming tough times, so treat yourself with the same kindness you’d offer to others.
Stay Healthy
Your body and mind are connected. When you’re active, play outside, and eat nutritious foods, you help your body feel better. And when your body feels good, your mood often follows.
Take a walk or play your favorite sport to boost your spirits. Hang out with your friends or try journaling to help boost your mental health.
You’re Not Just Your Rejections
One ‘no’ doesn’t define who you are. You have many qualities and achievements that make you special. Make a list of things you’re proud of and remember that you’re valued for who you are, not just for the things you achieve.
Learn and Grow
Every setback is a chance to learn. Take some time to think about what happened. Is there a lesson to be learned? Can you improve something for the next time? Use this experience as an opportunity to grow stronger and more resilient.
Keep Going and Grow Stronger!
Rejection isn’t the be-all, end-all. Everyone gets rejected for something at one point or another. It can be tough, but it’s also a chance to learn about yourself and get stronger.
It is important to remember not to let negative thoughts overcome you. Identify areas of improvement and work on them. Focus on other things. You’ll be able to