Dealing with rejection
Applies to jobs or academic programs, relationships or businesses…
Simply put, rejection sucks
Sadness, apprehension, disappointment, anger, discontent. These are all feelings that have arisen in my job search. I’m sure that you, too, have experienced these emotions. I’m so sick of recurrently seeing posts on LinkedIn about following the classic formula of tailoring your resume/CV and cover letter and networking, and about how “it’s all about being consistent” and “staying positive.”
Although this is a generally beneficial mentality to have, some of us do not have the economic security or the bandwidth to just “keep applying.” As we all know, job searching is a full-time job in and of itself, which means that it’s equally as physically draining and mentally exhausting, especially when it is to no avail.
This is why it is vital to understand that we all come from different places. For some of us, financial circumstances or family obligations do not allow us to simply “keep applying” to no end. My advice to people in this situation (I’ve also been there!) would be to take a job in the meantime that enables you to pay your bills and/or fulfill your caring duties while you keep searching. It’s not great advice, but there’s not much else to it.
Something that I try to remember is this: “I’m not the problem, the system is.” A system in which young professionals are paid dirt salaries or do work they’re overqualified for — just to keep themselves afloat.
Another mantra that I have during my job search is this: every “no” gets me closer to a “yes.” Every rejection I get means there are more chances of the next answer being positive. With this mindset, I have ensured that I stay grateful and proud of myself for getting closer to my goal.
What can we do to stay healthy and optimistic?
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Here are some activities I do to take care of myself physically and mentally while I job search, and I suggest you do as well:
🗓 ️Have a routine. Sticking to a schedule helps me have consistency and structure in my life.
🏋🏾 Go to the gym regularly.
🩰 Do something you enjoy. In my case, it’s dance (Sevillanas).
👨👩👧👧 Catch up with friends and family (I use Fabriq).
💭 Practice affirmations. I like the I am app.
🥗 Eat healthy.
✍🏼 Journal and meditate. I use Headspace and DiveThru.
🥳 Celebrate small wins. Aced an interview? Got good feedback from your application? Even if you didn’t get the job, these are indications that you’re on the right track.
📚 Engage in new activities/learn something new! Attend webinars, conferences, and other events in your area—or even volunteer!
Dear fellow job seeker,
You are more than a job searcher. You are a friend, son/daughter, sibling, spouse, partner, neighbor, citizen. There is no shame in job searching, so remember to take care of yourself in the process. By nurturing your mind, body, and soul, you’re enhancing your well-being, boosting your confidence, and increasing your chances for success.
You’re worth it and you’ll get there!✨🎉
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