Embracing Rejection: A Rock Star's Journey in Job Hunting

As I embark on this new chapter in my life, diving headfirst into the world of job hunting, I find myself facing the relentless onslaught of rejection. Being a Neurodivergent individual with complex post-traumatic stress disorder, my sensitivity to rejection is profound. While my logical and analytical mind advises me that job hunting is a numbers game, customizing and tailoring each resume for the job postings, the reality is far from easy. Most mornings, I begin with optimism, but by mid-afternoon, I often find myself deep in the clutches of the "depresso expresso" mode, struggling to stay upright, overwhelmed, emotional, and on the brink of tears. Repeating the mantra, "It's going to be okay," has become my lifeline.

Today was no different. As I lay face down, eyes closed, I realized that I could attempt to rationalize my way out of this emotional turmoil. While it might not be the healthiest coping mechanism, it helps me avoid resorting to unhealthy habits, like smoking cigarettes. But why do we often create stories that hurt us when we face situations where we cannot know the other side? Thoughts like "I am not qualified for this position," "I must have made a typo and now look incompetent," or "I probably used the wrong formatting" flood our minds. We construct narratives that trigger feelings of rejection, whether related to who we are or what we did. And this, my friends, is not a healthy approach.

Reflecting on my experiences, I realized that job hunting shares many similarities with the dating world, particularly for men. Both involve encountering very few prospects and facing a mountain of rejection. It's a tough reality, but it's a reality nonetheless. Just observe a man swiping right a hundred times and a woman swiping right only twenty times, and you'll quickly understand what I mean. During my dating days, I got stood up numerous times. However, my mindfulness practice allowed me to frame a story that didn't breed feelings of rejection. For instance, I would tell myself, "I hope her husband wasn't too angry when he found out" or "I hope she calls me when she wakes up from her coma." The truth is, whatever story we concoct in our minds is likely to be far from accurate anyway, so why not tell ourselves one that boosts our self-esteem?

And so, this led me to the story I want to share with you all today - "Not Everyone Needs a Rock Star." In the corporate world, some companies seek status-quo individuals who can play backup or strum a melody on their guitars. These companies might already have their Rock Stars, or they might not be prepared to scale quickly enough to accommodate bold, risk-taking innovators who challenge their agendas, question their processes, rethink their models, and break their policies and procedures in the pursuit of progress. Many companies are content with someone who can maintain a steady beat and make them look good—a person who can follow the same routine that pays the bills. What we often overlook is that companies struggle to harness the compassion and power that a true Rock Star brings to the table. Their foundations might be too weak, and they live in a shaky state that cannot tolerate anyone rocking the boat or unleashing the full potential of their stadium ballads.

Doesn't that perspective feel empowering? Next time you encounter rejection or feel broken and beaten down, remember that you, my friend, are a Rock Star, and those companies that can't handle your brilliance are not worthy of your shine. Your power is better suited for a place that appreciates and embraces it fully. On a serious note, don't forget to check in on your friends who are also navigating the challenging job-hunting process. The experience can exacerbate feelings of suicidal ideation, and they need support and encouragement. Reach out to them with a text or call, reminding the Rock Stars in your life just how amazing they are!

For those who might be feeling like they have hit rock bottom and are contemplating giving up, please don't. We care about you, and there is help available. Reach out to 988 to get the support you need because even Rock Stars need help sometimes. Remember, it's okay to seek assistance, and it doesn't diminish your greatness in any way. Stay strong, and let's continue to support one another on this journey through the highs and lows of life. Together, we can face any challenge and emerge victorious, just like the true Rock Stars we are.