Hey there!
Let’s talk about something we all face but rarely enjoy: rejection. Recently, I’ve had a string of near-opportunities—projects that seemed promising but ended up as cancellations or went to other artists. On top of that, I’m on the hunt for a literary agent as I explore the world of publishing my own books. Spoiler: it’s hard. After receiving yet another email saying, “Unfortunately, this isn’t the right fit for me,” I felt like sharing some tips that have helped me navigate rejection. Maybe they’ll help you too.
Here are 5 ways to manage rejection without letting it derail your mental health or your art:
1. Don’t Take It Personally
Rejection isn’t a reflection of your worth or talent. It’s often about timing, fit, or the client/agent’s vision—not about you. If it doesn’t work out, that just means it wasn’t the right match, and that’s okay. Keep creating anyway.
2. Get Used to the Sting
The more you face rejection, the less it’ll hurt over time. Sure, it’ll still sting, but you’ll bounce back faster. You’ll gain confidence in yourself and trust that the right opportunity will come. (Ever heard of the 1,000 Rejections Challenge? Look it up—it’s a game-changer!)
3. See It as a Chance to Grow
Sometimes rejection comes with feedback—use it! Did someone say your portfolio needs more variety? Start working on that dream project or experimenting with new styles. Each “no” can be a stepping stone toward where you want to go.
4. Remember: It’s Not Always Forever
A rejection now doesn’t mean a rejection forever. Often, it’s more of a “not right now.” Use the opportunity to build connections and nurture relationships with people who could eventually help you achieve your goals. Stay genuine, and you never know what doors might open down the line.
5. Keep Creating, No Matter What
Whether it’s a “we went in another direction” or a “sorry, not a fit,” don’t let rejection stop you. Your work will eventually resonate with the right audience. But here’s the thing: you have to keep making the art. Without it, those connections can’t happen.
Over time, I’ve learned to separate rejection from my sense of self-worth and the value of my art. It’s not easy, but this mindset has kept me moving forward, creating the work I love, and building the career I dream of.
If you’re facing rejection right now, I hope these tips help. And if you’ve got your own ways of handling rejection, I’d love to hear them—drop them in the comments!
XOXO,
Chelsy
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