Shifting Rejection as Positive Redirection: Gratitude for Closed Doors
As we move through life and encounter challenges in our work life, relationships, family and friendships, the concept of rejection probably conjures feelings of fear and anxiety. But what if we shift our perspective and see rejection not as a setback, but as a positive redirection? ✨
This idea isn't just fluffy wishful thinking; it's grounded in research and exemplified in the stories of many successful individuals. Let's delve deeper.
The Science Behind Rejection 🫸
Research in psychology suggests that experiencing and coping with rejection can build resilience, enhance our problem-solving skills and adaptability, and provide opportunity for self-reflection and growth. Rejection forces us to pause and reflect... you might realise that what you thought you wanted is not what you really want after all.💭
Motivation for New Paths 🚧
The "Journal of Experimental Social Psychology" suggests that rejection can sometimes be the catalyst for exploring new paths, pushing us out of our comfort zones and into potentially more rewarding territories. Sometimes we may stay in a job or relationship well past its useful expiry date but because it's familiar, we stay. Rejection, although painful at first, might be just what we need to move us out of an unhealthy comfort zone and into bright new paths.☀️
Embrace Rejection in Everyday Life
1. Understand Its Role:
Acknowledge that rejection isn't the end, but a part of your journey.🧭
2. Learn from Experience:
Each rejection offers valuable lessons, encouraging introspection and helping you to identify areas for personal and professional growth. 📈
3. Build Emotional Strength:
Overcoming the initial disappointment of rejection builds emotional strength and resilience, equipping us to better handle future challenges (when they inevitably come) with grace.💖
4. Open New Doors:
Rejection often leads to unexpected opportunities, opening doors to success we might not have otherwise considered. For me, this resonates deeply, having had the marketing door repeatedly closed until I took notice and now find myself embracing the world of coaching - and I'm doing something that fits my personality and life experience so naturally! 🥰
5. Seek Feedback:
Constructive feedback can provide insights that provide opportunities for growth. Ask your manager why you were passed over for a promotion, or the hiring manager why you didn't get that job offer you interviewed for. Seek first to understand and then use this information to improve. 💡
6. Practice Self-Compassion:
Be kind to yourself during times of redirection. Think of how you would comfort a friend if they were in your position and show yourself that same compassion.🫶
Trust the Journey
As we move through various phases in life, it's helpful to remember that our paths aren't meant to be linear. Rejection isn't a sign of our worth, but a pivot to something potentially much greater. What I have realised within my own life is that the more in-tune I am with my inner desires, and when I take action steps towards my higher goals, things tend to go smoother.🙏
So, allow yourself some time to feel the disappointment or sadness of that chapter closing or opportunity passing by, and then move forward with the knowing that you're moving closer to a life that resonates more deeply with who you are and what you truly need.
Trust in your journey - the best is yet to come! 🌈
If you'd like expert guidance in moving forward from your own redirections, you're most welcome to schedule a virtual coffee chat with me now: 📲 https://calendly.com/kristinjcav/30min☕
I look forward to it!
Best wishes,
Kristin xo
