🚫 Rejection isn’t the end—it’s just not yet…
One thing I’ve learned in my leadership journey is that rejection isn’t the end of the road (for me or my team) —it’s often just the beginning of something better. It’s easy to let a “no” knock the wind out of your sails, but what really matters is how you respond to it.
A while back, a direct report of mine went through this firsthand. She was eager to move into a new role, one that wasn’t the obvious next step but a whole new direction. We worked together, refining her resume, prepping for interviews, and when the time came, she gave it everything she had. But when the dust settled, she didn’t get the job.
She was devastated. She felt like she was the best at what she did—and she was right. But the other candidates had something extra. They had found creative ways to demonstrate their potential, to show they could excel in the new role even without direct experience.
For a few weeks, she was upset and frustrated. But then, something clicked. She walked into my office—completely out of character for her—and said, “Okay, fine. I didn’t get the job. But I still want it. How do we make it happen?”
That moment of resilience was a game-changer. Instead of letting rejection define her, she decided to take control of her story. We brainstormed ways for her to develop the skills and experiences she needed. A few months later, she applied for a similar role, and this time, she was ready. She got the job, and she’s been thriving ever since.
It’s been years now, and when I look back, I’m so thankful she didn’t let that initial “no” stop her. She didn’t give up; she doubled down. And I’m grateful I got to be part of that journey, watching her turn rejection into redirection.
So, the next time you face a setback, remember that rejection is not the final word, it just means not yet. It’s just a detour on the road to something greater. Don’t let it stop you—use it to propel you forward (or at least keep you chugging towards your goal).
The world isn’t going to happen to you—you’re going to happen to the world.
Find this blog helpful? Be sure to share it with a friend!
Or, want blog posts like this delivered to your email each week (no spam, I promise)? Click here to sign up
Comments