I recently listened to a ted x podcast that changed my perspective on something every human being faces – rejection. Being rejected is arguably one of the most painful experiences. It often makes you question your worth, and if you do not catch yourself, can cause a downward spiral into self-loathing. But, being rejected is inevitable. And so, there has to be a way that you can train yourself to avoid, or at least limit, the pain it causes.

In this podcast, Darryll Stinson talks about how rejection should be viewed as one of two things –projection or protection. Often rejection comes in the form of harsh criticisms from those around you. If you train yourself to see their harsh criticisms as them projecting their own internal struggles onto you, it will help you not take it personally, and in turn be able to separate the words from the person. The rejections we face often have more to do with the other person’s inner turmoil, rather than our own value. Rather than shrink yourself and become discouraged, move forward with confidence.

On the flip side of the coin, rejection can be seen as protection. Whether you believe in God, the universe, fate or nothing at all, the fact stands that often we have no control over our circumstances, and it is at this point that you have to surrender and realize you cannot see the full picture. You are zoomed in on your circumstances and your perception is skewed. Choose to believe that whatever you have been rejected from is protection for something that was not meant for you. That which is yours, will not pass you by.

So, the next time you face rejection, indeed feel what you need to feel, but then shift your perspective. Rejection should be used as the “catalyst for our greatest successes and proof of our value and uniqueness”.

Something that always encourages me is the following:

Romans 8:28 “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him”.

So get yourself a motto, and remember, your worth is intrinsic.