MAGAZINERADIOSHOP
LOG INSUBSCRIBE
2022-02-16
Written by Dylan Hayes
A creative's journey with rejection can be emotionally charged, but finding the right support system can help navigate the pain and foster resilience. By sharing personal experiences and expert insights, creatives and therapists offer guidance on overcoming rejection and staying true to artistic vision.
Rejection is an inevitable part of life, especially for creatives. It's a feeling that can be suffocating, yet it's often the catalyst for growth and innovation. To better understand this complex emotion, we spoke with four artists and a therapist who shared their personal experiences with rejection and offered insights on how to navigate these difficult situations.
For many creatives, rejection is a constant companion. It can come in the form of unsolicited criticism, missed opportunities, or even the fear of failure. Sarah, a painter, shared her story of being rejected from several art competitions before landing a solo exhibition. "At first, I was devastated," she recalled. "But as time went on, I realized that each rejection taught me something new about my craft and myself." Mark, a writer, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Rejection is not the end of the world; it's an opportunity to refine your work and try again with a fresh perspective."
Therapist Dr. Lee emphasized the importance of reframing one's mindset when dealing with rejection. "Rather than viewing rejection as a personal failure, we can see it as a necessary step towards growth and improvement," she said. "It's essential to develop a growth mindset, where we view challenges as opportunities for learning and development." When asked about her own experiences with rejection, Dr. Lee shared a story of being rejected from medical school before pursuing a career in therapy. "Looking back, I realize that rejection was a blessing in disguise," she said. "It allowed me to explore other passions and find my true calling."
The lesson is clear: rejection is not the end of the road; it's often just a detour. By approaching rejection with an open mind and a willingness to learn, creatives can turn what could be a negative experience into a positive one. As Sarah put it, "Rejection has become a motivator for me. It pushes me to work harder, experiment more, and take risks that I might not have taken otherwise."