Rejection – Turning it into Direction

Everyone fears rejection.

Rejection is a type of communication that says someone else really doesn’t matter to us, or that he or she doesn’t measure up to a standard we’ve created or adopted. Whatever the form of behavior, rejection communicates disrespect, low value, and lack of appreciation.

Few things hurt like rejection.

When I was 7, my Dad walked out. On Christmas Eve.

I begged him not to go. But he left anyway. I was devastated.

Dr. Meg Meeker, best-selling Author of Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters, says that every woman will take at least 1 man to the grave, and it’s not her husband. It’s her Dad.

Either because she loved him so much and he passed away, or because he was just never there and she buried him in her heart.

I buried my dad – into the deepest part of my heart and mind.

To avoid the pain of rejection, I had to bury him. Forget him. And bury myself in my work – pretending like it didn’t bother me. But it did.

How have you experienced rejection?

At home? At work?

As I’ve worked with leaders all over the country, I’ve noted 4 ways many respond to rejection…

1. I don’t care. Some try to give off a cool, nonchalant exterior and, consequently, never develop deep, satisfying relationships.

2. Withdraw from everything. Others are so fearful of rejection that they withdraw and decline almost everything

3. Can’t say no. Some always say yes to everyone, hoping to gain the approval of others.

4. Easily controlled or defensive. Some are sensitive to criticism and react defensively while others are shy and easily manipulated.

What if  I told you…

There’s a better way. Effective leaders understand that self-worth is not found in the approval of others. Sure – rejection hurts. But it doesn’t have to define or derail you.

A few weeks ago, I surprised my dad on his 70th birthday. I came face to face with what hurt me the most and I was able to get free. It wasn’t until I faced my rejection that I was able to use it for direction. It wasn’t until I identified my pain and stopped trying to cover up what hurt me the most that I was able to use it for purpose.

Dependence on others for value results only in bondage. Finding security in faith, vision, and your life’s calling brings freedom and joy.

An ancient scripture asks – “Am I seeking the favor of men or of God? Or am I working to please others?”

Our greatest successes are often found in those things that hurt us the most. So step out, tell your story, and inspire others to tell theirs.

Today we’re giving a completely FREE gift to you. Here is an exclusive interview Jevonnah did with Michael Hyatt in which he shares about how he used personal rejection for direction and turned his pain into purpose.