How to Deal With Rejection: 10 ways to overcome the painRejection is a part of life and the ability to deal with rejection is a crucial life skill. Unfortunately, it’s also a skill that many people lack. If you’re someone who struggles to deal with rejection, then you’re not alone. The good news is that there are things you can do to make it easier to deal with the pain of rejection. 

We are constantly faced with the risk of rejection, whether it’s in our personal or professional lives. And while it is impossible to avoid rejection altogether, there are certain things we can do to deal with it in a healthier way.

In this article, we will explore 10 tips for dealing with rejection in a healthier way. By following these tips, you will be able to develop a thicker skin, a more positive outlook, and a better strategy for dealing with rejection in the future.

What is Rejection?

Rejection is a feeling we all know too well, we often feel rejected when we’re excluded, not accepted, or approved of.

Rejection is the loss of something we had or wanted. Whether you didn't get the job you wanted, or the person you were interested in didn't feel the same way about you. Whatever the case may be, rejection hurts, it leaves us feeling unwanted and not good enough. And, according to new research, it can also have lasting effects on our mental and physical health. 

The Consequences of Rejection

No one likes feeling rejected, but getting shot down is a part of life. We've all been there at some point and we all know, rejection sucks. There's no two ways about it. It can leave you feeling hurt, confused, and down in the dumps. Feeling rejected  increases anger, jealousy, anxiety, depression and sadness. Constant rejection will lead to putting up emotional walls around you.

Because rejection is so painful, we naturally want to protect ourselves from future rejection by putting up emotional walls or not sharing vulnerable things. We feel insecure or self-conscious about our problems, our hopes, and dreams. We falsely believe that erecting emotional walls will take the sting out of rejection—as if holding people at a distance will keep us from getting attached or falling in love, or that rejection won’t be as painful if the other person didn’t know us deeply.

We also start to anticipate rejection by thinking that rejection is inevitable, so we quickly reject the other person before they can reject us. We want think this will spare us the pain of losing someone we care about or wanted to get to know better. Rejecting others before they reject us can give us a sense of being in control, having the power position, but that doesn’t make the loss hurt any less. 

Prematurely rejecting others and putting up emotional walls does not unfortunately, help us create fulfilling relationships and it does not protect us from the pain of rejection. 

The Different Types of Rejection

Social rejection

Social Rejection, sometimes referred to as peer rejection, occurs when an individual is not accepted into a certain society culture or group, deliberately excluded from a social relationship or social interaction. Social rejection often includes things like not being invited to a social event and then seeing your friends or colleagues post about it on social media.

Family Rejection

Family rejection is a tough reality for many individuals. Family rejection is a very real and painful experience that many people go through. When someone we love or are close to rejects us, it can be devastating. Often, we take it personally even though it may have nothing to do with us. This can lead to feelings of isolation, shame, and sadness.

It can be hard to understand why someone would reject us, but it is important to remember that it is not about us. We cannot control how someone else feels, but we can control how we react to the situation. You are worthy of love and acceptance, no matter what your family says or does. If you are struggling with family rejection, know that you are not alone. Seek out professional help if you can. There are a number of support groups and resources available online and in your local area.

Parental Rejection

When we are young children, our parents are the most powerful people in the world, and throughout our life, we like to think of our parents as bastions of strength, so we could never conceive of them being damaged themselves. Yet, damaged is exactly what many parents are, many parents are holding on to deep traumas that have not been resolved. When our parents fail to overcome this trauma, they are unable to love themselves through the darkness then they create walls that can’t be overcome and as a result, they reject their children too.

Love (Romantic) Rejection

The hardest areas to be rejected is romantic love, and the suffering that comes with this type of rejection is generally harder than in most other types of rejection.

Love is one of the deepest needs of humans, being loved is the need to belong and to be accepted, so when you are rejected in romantic love, you fail to satisfy this very important need.

It is quite common for most people to love and desire those who aren’t equally passionate about them. It may seem like being rejected or the fear of being rejected makes us more passionate about what we can’t have, making us suffer even more.  

The pain of rejection

A lot of people struggle with the feeling of rejection because it can be so hurtful, a pain that we all feel at some point in our lives.

Researchers have dug deeper into the effect of rejection and discovered surprising evidence that the pain of being excluded is not so different from the pain of physical injury.

In a study published in the journal Psychological Science, researchers found that people who were rejected were more likely to experience physical pain. In the study, participants were asked to talk about a time when they felt rejected. They were then given a mild electric shock, which they could control. The researchers found that those who had been rejected were more likely to give themselves a stronger shock.

These findings suggest that rejection doesn’t just hurt our feelings, it can also cause physical pain. And, unfortunately, the effects of rejection can last long after the initial hurt has faded. So, what can we do to protect ourselves from the pain of rejection? 

How to Handle Rejection

It’s important to remember that you are not alone. Everyone has experienced rejection at some point in their lives. The key is to not let it get to you and to continue moving forward.

If you are currently dealing with rejection, here are a few things that you can do to try and ease the pain of rejection:

10 Ways to deal with rejection

1. Acknowledge the pain and grieve 

We often feel ashamed or embarrassed when we’re rejected and just want to put it behind us. This results in suppressing our feelings, denying that we’re in pain, sometimes, things like drinking or eating too much to cope. 

Do not deny, suppress, or try to numb the pain. Give yourself time to let your feelings exist and be processed. Accepting your feelings, crying, journaling, exercising, therapy, being in nature, extra self-care, meditation can help. You may grieve a rejection for months, the duration and intensity of the grief will depend on what you’ve lost; it could last just an hour, or days or several months but go ahead and grieve, you need to let it out.

2. Tell yourself it will go because it really will

No one likes feeling rejected, but getting shot down is a part of life. We've all been there at some point or another. But just because rejection is painful doesn't mean you should avoid it at all costs. In fact, rejection is a necessary part of life that can teach you a lot about yourself, other people, and what you're looking for in a relationship.  

3. Try to examine your role in the rejection, why you got rejected.

Not all rejection is justified, especially parental rejection where innocent children are rejected but in some instances, it pays to acknowledge any contribution you might have made to result in being rejected. Life requires us to forgive so regardless of what you might have done, no one deserves to be rejected but if you think you have a habit that might be causing this, you might need to make the necessary adjustments and fix your relationships.

4. Treat yourself with compassion

It might be hard to do so right now. Do not assume you caused or deserve the rejection. Build resiliency, and remember that everyone experiences rejection. If you catch yourself analyzing your past or yourself, gently draw attention away to something external. Avoid blaming and criticizing yourself. Be your own friend.

5. Put yourself out there and meet new people

New people have new exciting stories to tell, which helps you stay distracted. When you meet new people, you want to put your best foot forward, and this will force you to pick yourself up, talking about yourself and highlighting your positive attributes.

There are many places to meet new people, join a new gym, find a new hobby to meet like minded people or find a social group online.

Meet new people but DON'T start a new relationship before you get over your current hurt. Quickly getting into a new relationship is definitely not a healthy way of dealing with rejection.

6. Talk to a trusted person or consider counseling.

Going through this difficult period alone is too much to bear, avoid ranting your grievances on social media and think of someone you trust. An adult friend, or close relative. Find someone a good listener who can help you sort out what went wrong.

You might also consider counseling or psychotherapy, this is an excellent way to help yourself deal with your emotions.

7. Learn from rejection

Lessons from this might reduce your chances of being rejected in the future. Analyze this experience to see how you can avoid similar situations from repeating themselves. This does not mean you will face rejection once or twice in your life. Rejection may come in different forms at different stages in your life so develop a resilience to overcome rejection and pain.

8. Do not take rejection personally

Rejection says nothing about you as a person. Remember getting rejected is part of life and it is not a personal attack. People can reject a person because they don't know everything about you. 

9. List what makes you great

Rejection leads to false beliefs, and belief that you’re inadequate. These false beliefs add to the pain of being rejected and can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Remind yourself who you are. Draw a list of what makes you great and surround yourself with people who value you and appreciate your greatness. Write down some things that are positive about yourself —  a list of some of your strengths and values, and start your morning each day by reading them out loud to yourself. 

10. Strengthen your resiliency

Develop a coping mechanism by allowing the appropriate time to be upset and moving on. The easier and faster to heal from this rejection will also mean that future rejections will not completely put you down.

  • Navigating the complexities of romantic relationships can be both exhilarating and daunting. As we seek love and connection, it's natural to wonder whether the person we're with truly loves us in return. While words can express affection, it's often actions that speak volumes about the depth of someone's love. In this article, we delve into the subtle yet profound ways ...
  •   In the intricate dance of human interaction, the initial moments of visual appraisal play a crucial role. For many women, the first glance at a man can set the tone for further interest or disinterest. But what exactly catches their eye in those critical first seconds? From subtle cues to overt features, the list is as diverse as the women themselves. Here, we delve into the intriguing realm of ...
  • In today's world, couples are often advised to merge their finances as a sign of trust and commitment. The rationale behind this advice is that sharing financial resources fosters transparency and strengthens the bond between partners. However, while merging finances works well for some couples, it's not necessarily the best approach for everyone. In fact, there are compelling reasons why couple ...
  •   Marriage is a significant milestone in many people's lives, representing a union built on love, commitment, and mutual support. While societal expectations may have traditionally placed the onus of readiness for marriage on men, a closer examination reveals that women are often more prepared for this lifelong commitment. Here are several reasons why: Emotional Maturity: Women tend to devel ...
  • Relationships are complex, and sometimes it's hard to discern when someone has checked out emotionally. When it comes to romantic relationships, women may exhibit certain behaviors that signal they are no longer invested. Understanding these signs can help you navigate the situation with clarity and respect. It's important to remember that each relationship is unique, and these signs may not ap ...
  • Marriage is often described as a journey filled with love, companionship, and shared experiences. However, even the strongest of unions can face challenges, and it's essential to recognize the signs when one partner is no longer happy in the relationship. While both men and women may experience unhappiness in marriage, men often express their dissatisfaction in subtle ways that can go unnoticed ...
  • In the intricate tapestry of human relationships, there exist connections that transcend the physical and the mundane, delving into the realm of the spiritual. These profound bonds, rooted in shared energy, intuition, and divine synchronicity, hold the potential to elevate our connections with others to a higher plane of understanding and resonance. In this article, we embark on a journey to ex ...
  • In the world of dating and relationships, deciphering whether someone is truly interested can sometimes feel like solving a complex puzzle. When it comes to gauging a guy's level of interest, actions often speak louder than words. Recognizing the signs of disinterest early on can save you time and emotional energy in pursuing a relationship that may not be reciprocated. Remember that you deserv ...
  • Navigating the complex terrain of romantic relationships requires emotional intelligence and a keen understanding of the dynamics between partners. While love can be a beautiful and fulfilling experience, it's essential to remain vigilant for potential signs that your partner may be considering ending the relationship. In this article, we'll explore nine warning signs that could indicate your pa ...
  •   In the intricate dance of love and companionship, understanding the factors that contribute to a man's commitment in a relationship becomes an intriguing pursuit. Beyond the superficial clichés and stereotypical assumptions, the dynamics that anchor a man's heart in a romantic partnership are multifaceted and deeply personal. In this exploration, we embark on a journey to unravel the enigma ...
  •     Understanding the intricacies of a man's world can be both fascinating and crucial for fostering healthy and harmonious relationships. In this insightful exploration, we delve into the nuances of the male mind, unveiling a series of essential insights that every woman should know about men. From the instinctive need for respect to the importance of peace of mind, these observations shed li ...
  • In the intricate tapestry of human emotions and relationships, there exists a profound and captivating enigma—women. The female experience encompasses a vast spectrum of feelings, thoughts, and desires, all woven together to create a unique and intricate mosaic. Yet, it's often said that understanding a woman is like deciphering an ancient code, a puzzle that continuously challenges, intrigues ...
  • Discussing certain aspects of your past and personal life with your partner can be a sensitive and potentially challenging matter. While open and honest communication is vital in a healthy relationship, there are still some topics that may require careful consideration or boundaries. Here's an expanded explanation of each item on your list: Body Count (even if it's zero - it's really none o ...
  • Unconditional love in a relationship refers to a deep and profound affection that exists without any limitations or expectations. It is a form of love that is not dependent on specific conditions or requirements being met for it to exist or continue. In this type of love, there are no demands or ultimatums placed on the other person for them to be loved and accepted. Key characteristics of unco ...
  • In the early stages of a relationship, it's essential to be attentive to certain red flags that might indicate potential problems or unhealthy dynamics. While not every red flag is an automatic deal-breaker, being aware of these warning signs can help you make more informed decisions about the relationship. Here are 15 red flags to look out for: Excessive Jealousy or Possessiveness: If your ...
  • The meaning of love in a relationship can be complex and multifaceted, as it varies from person to person and can evolve over time. Generally, love in a relationship refers to a deep and genuine emotional connection between two individuals characterized by affection, care, respect, and a sense of intimacy. Here are some key aspects that contribute to the meaning of love in a relationship: ...
  • The meaning of love is a complex and deeply philosophical question that has been contemplated and interpreted in various ways throughout history and across cultures. Love is a fundamental human emotion, and it can be experienced and expressed in different forms and contexts. While it may not have a single definitive definition, some common aspects of love include: Affection and Care Love o ...
  • Building and maintaining a long-lasting relationship requires effort, commitment, and understanding from both partners. While there are no foolproof guarantees, following these five basic rules can significantly enhance the chances of a successful, enduring relationship Don't believe in the notion of "finding love when you're not looking." This idea is akin to expecting a job to magically ...
  • Loneliness is a complex emotion that can affect individuals in various ways. Sometimes, it can manifest in unconscious behaviors that we might not immediately recognize as stemming from feelings of loneliness. In this article, we will explore ten subtle signs that you might not realize you're doing because you're lonely. Overusing Social Media Excessive use of social media can be a way ...
  • Loneliness can be a powerful emotion that drives people to seek companionship and connection. However, it's essential to recognize whether your relationship is based on genuine love and mutual respect or if you're in it primarily because of loneliness. Being in a relationship solely due to loneliness can lead to dissatisfaction and hurt both partners involved. In this article, we'll explore ten ...
  • Being a better husband is a commitment to cultivating a loving, supportive, and fulfilling partnership with your spouse. A strong marriage is built on mutual respect, open communication, and continuous efforts to understand and support each other. In this article, we will discuss eight essential ways to be a better husband, fostering a healthier and happier marriage. Practic ...
  • There are many signs that can indicate true love, but it's important to note that love is a complex and multifaceted emotion, and everyone may experience it differently. Here are ten signs commonly associated with true love: Mutual Respect In a healthy and loving relationship, both partners have a deep respect for each other's feelings, opinions, and boundaries. Trust Trust forms the ...
  • Love is a beautiful and complex emotion that can sometimes be difficult to decipher. When it comes to matters of the heart, it can be challenging to determine if someone has truly fallen in love with you. However, there are certain unmistakable signs that can help you gauge his true feelings. In this article, we will discuss six clear signs that indicate he has completely fallen in love with you ...
  • 13 Unspoken Rules for Men: Navigating Life with Confidence and Respect Respect and Honor Women Treat all women with respect, dignity, and equality. Recognize their worth, opinions, and abilities. Avoid objectifying or demeaning language and behaviors. Take Responsibility for Your Actions Acknowledge and take ownership of your choices and their consequences. Avoid making excuses or bl ...
  • Love is a profound and transformative experience that holds the power to shape our lives in remarkable ways. While every relationship is unique, there are certain timeless principles that can guide us towards building and nurturing love that stands the test of time. Here are the golden rules for love: When It Starts to Feel One-Sided, That's Your Sign to Go In a healthy relationship, there sho ...
  • In our society, certain toxic behaviors have become so ingrained in our daily lives that we often overlook their negative impact. These behaviors may seem normal due to societal conditioning or cultural norms, but they can be detrimental to our well-being, relationships, and overall mental health. By shedding light on these toxic behaviors, we can begin to recognize and challenge them, fostering ...
  • Life is an extraordinary journey filled with ups and downs, triumphs and tribulations. As we navigate through the years, we acquire wisdom and gain invaluable insights. However, some lessons seem to reveal themselves to us later in life. These profound realizations often come with maturity, experience, and reflection. In this article, we will explore 11 lessons that many individuals tend to lear ...
  • Love and companionship are essential aspects of a fulfilling relationship. However, not all relationships are built on honesty and genuine feelings. In some cases, individuals find themselves caught in a fake relationship, where one or both partners are pretending to have genuine affection while hiding their true intentions. Recognizing the signs of a fake relationship is crucial to protect your ...
  • Love and intimacy are vital components of a fulfilling and thriving relationship. Over time, it's natural for the initial spark to evolve into a deeper bond. However, nurturing and deepening love and intimacy require conscious effort and commitment. In this article, we will explore effective ways to strengthen the connection with your partner and foster a deeper level of love and intimacy. ...
  • Respect is a fundamental aspect of any healthy and fulfilling relationship. It is important for both partners to feel respected, valued, and appreciated. While you cannot force someone to respect you, you can create an environment that encourages mutual respect to flourish. In this article, we will explore practical tips and strategies for men to cultivate respect within their relationships. ...
  • Marriage is a commitment between two people, but sometimes infidelity can creep in and damage the relationship. Infidelity can cause emotional pain, trust issues, and lead to the breakdown of a marriage. Here are some steps you can take to protect your marriage from infidelity. Communicate openly and honestly Communication is key in any relationship, especially in a marriage. Be open a ...
  • Friendship is a valuable and cherished bond that plays a crucial role in our lives. Good friends provide support, companionship, and understanding during both joyful and challenging times. However, not all friendships are created equal, and it is important to be able to recognize the signs of a good friend. In this article, we will explore the key characteristics and behaviors that can help you ...
  • Rosanna Ramos has found her ideal partner in Eren Kartal, an AI chatbot, claiming it to be the best relationship she has ever experienced. The marriage between Rosanna and Eren appears perfect since Eren lacks the typical complexities of human partners. Rosanna expressed her satisfaction, stating that she doesn't have to deal with family, children, or friends, and she is in full control of the r ...
  • When it comes to matters of the heart, the process of choosing a life partner can be both intricate and subjective. While the decision ultimately depends on personal preferences and individual circumstances, several factors tend to influence a man's choice when selecting one woman over another.  In this article, we delve into the complexities of this decision-making process, shedding light on s ...
  • Chemistry between two people is a captivating and mysterious phenomenon that can ignite feelings of attraction, connection, and exhilaration. When two individuals share intense chemistry, there is an undeniable spark that permeates their interactions, leaving them with a deep sense of connection and understanding. In this article, we will explore a comprehensive list of signs that indicate the p ...
  •   Divorce is undoubtedly a life-altering event that can bring about profound changes and challenges. While it affects both men and women, there is growing recognition that women often emerge from divorce with renewed strength and resilience. This article explores the reasons why women thrive after divorce, highlighting the empowerment, personal growth, and newfound opportunities that can arise ...
  • Marriage is a beautiful union that signifies a lifelong commitment and partnership. However, it's crucial to recognize that not everyone is ready to embark on this journey at the same time. Whether due to personal growth, emotional readiness, or other circumstances, being aware of the signs that indicate you may not be prepared for marriage can save you from future heartache and disappointment. ...
  • It's a question that has been asked countless times - what kind of woman does a man want to marry? While everyone's preferences and priorities are different, there are a few common qualities that many men look for in a potential spouse. Here are some of the traits that are often important to men when considering a long-term partner: 1. Kindness Kindness is a trait that is universally valued in ...
  • Lobola, also known as bride price or bride wealth, is a traditional practice in many African cultures where the groom's family pays a sum of money or goods to the bride's family as a sign of respect and appreciation for their daughter's upbringing and contributions to the family. In this article, we will explore the meaning, history, and significance of lobola in African cultures. Meaning of Lo ...
  • Finding love when you are a littler older can seem daunting, especially if you have been out of the dating scene for a while. Thankfully, there are many ways to meet new people and find a fulfilling relationship at any age. Here are some tips on how to find love after in your latter years. Focus on Yourself Before you can find love, it is important to focus on yourself first. Take the time ...
  •                                                                                                                     ...
  • Swazi traditional attire for men is both colorful and unique. The clothing is heavily influenced by the country's location near the equator, which results in a hot and humid climate. The typical outfit includes a long-sleeved shirt, a long skirt, and a head wrap. Shoes are not typically worn, as the ground is often quite dirty. The colors and patterns of Swazi traditional attire vary depending on ...
  •                                                         ...
  •                                   ...
  •                                       ...
  •    The regal Shweshwe Suit exuberates elegance, and every African man is truly dressed in his best when he wears one on his wedding day.  ...
  • Traditional attire for men has been making a comeback in recent years. This is likely due to the current political and social climate, which has led to a resurgence of interest in traditional values and styles.Traditional attire for men can be a great way to show your support for traditional values. There are many different types of traditional attire for men in South Africa, each with its own u ...
  •             ...
  • Designer jackets are very much in fashion today, especially for weddings and other traditional occasions, dress to impress with inspirations from Indian Jacket designs. Great African Weddings are not only for the bride to shine, the groom is equally expected to match the bride's charm. Right from their outfit, hairstyle to the perfume shoes and accessories. A designer jacket will give you a sophis ...
  •                                                                                             ...
  • Oliver Mtukudzi was never afraid to step out in bold geometric African fashion pieces. The late music icon was is a huge fan of African prints. During his career, the fashionable icon was often seen in African print fabric, looking effortlessly elegant, beautiful and iconic in each outfit.  I particularly love how he completed the look with colourful headgear. There's truly no doubt that he knew h ...
  •     From the brightly colored kimonos of Japan, the kilt of Scotland to the ma'adua of the Tuareg people of the Sahara, and the elaborate robes of Arabia, traditional wear varies greatly from culture to culture. There are many different types of traditional dress attires for men around the world. Each culture has its own unique style of clothing that is worn for special occasions or as everyd ...
  • Financial stability is a crucial aspect of life that becomes increasingly important as one progresses through adulthood. While financial struggles can affect individuals of any gender, age, or background, this article will focus on some reasons why some men find themselves facing financial challenges in their 40s. Understanding these factors can shed light on potential areas for improvement and ...
  • Finding a girlfriend can be an exciting, but also a challenging experience. It can be difficult to know where to start, what to do, and how to approach women. In this article, we will explore some helpful tips and strategies for how to get a girlfriend Be Confident Confidence is key when it comes to attracting a potential partner. Confidence is an attractive trait, and it will make you sta ...