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Read time: 3 min.

Welcome to my weekly newsletter - Where I use stories from my life to unpack lessons and insights I have learnt. I hope you enjoy the material and gain something impactful to apply to your life.

What's in store:

• I was laughed at when I said to the agent that I aspired to be on the cover of Menshealth magazine.
• Rejection strikes at the very core of our self-worth - ask Stallone who was rejected for Rocky.
• Rejection, however real it may be, does not have to define you.
• Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.”

Rejection is an inevitable part of life, one that we all encounter on numerous occasions. Its sting is bitter, and we can't help but despise the emotions it evokes. But why does rejection affect us so deeply? It strikes at the very core of our self-worth, leaving us feeling inadequate and unworthy. These feelings often trace back to our formative years, with parents, peers, teachers, and even romantic relationships, inadvertently reinforcing the notion that we are not good enough.

As we face rejection, it subtly molds our perception of the world, becoming a filter through which we interpret everything. This insidious process can lead to dangerous insecurities that poison our minds and hinder our growth. The power of words becomes strikingly apparent during such times, as even a single bit of rejection can inflict lasting damage, deeply influencing our outlook on life.

I distinctly recall a pivotal moment during my university days when a friend casually suggested I consider "modeling" as an alternative to my part-time jobs. The idea seemed absurd to me, and I believed that I was lacking in height and confidence, according to the self-limiting filter that had taken shape throughout my life.

Several months later, finding myself disenchanted with my current job, I mustered the courage to visit the modeling agency. I remember walking into the room, nerves gnawing at me, only to be met with an unflinching gaze from the agent. His first words were not the expected greetings; instead, they struck like venom: "You won’t get a single job. Nice to meet you too, by the way." In an instant, he seemed to confirm every doubt I had about myself. He measured my height, dismissively commenting on my lack of suitability. It felt as though my self-esteem was crumbling with each word he spoke.

That moment of rejection and dejection was difficult to shake off. I called my friend, uttering a defeated, "You see, I told you so."

It's true; countless stories celebrate individuals who faced repeated rejection before achieving greatness. Think of the tale of Rocky Balboa from the movie franchise. However, not everyone possesses the unyielding will to endure relentless rejection until they "finally make it." For most of us, the barrage of rejections can break our spirit.

But life has a way of offering second chances. A few years later, driven by financial need once again and a friend reassuring me "I could make good money", I decided to give it another shot with a different agency—boasting a sportier niche that resonated with my vibe. Long story short, I ended up securing opportunities worldwide, even gracing the coveted cover of Menshealth magazine on numerous occasions globally – a surreal accomplishment that once seemed impossible. That other agent's words echoed faintly in the background, swallowed by the hum of my triumph.

I wish I could say that in the subsequent years, he had come across my path, but he hasn't.

Rejection, however real it may be, does not have to define us. It is a tangible force, but we alone hold the power to determine its impact on our lives. In our darkest moments, it's essential to remember that the rejection we face often stems from the insecurities of others projecting onto us. It's their way of dealing with their own failures and inadequacies, attempting to crush our potential for greatness in the process.

It is vital to stand up for ourselves, fight against the lies, and prove them all wrong through our consistent and relentless pursuit of becoming the best version of ourselves. By refusing to surrender to rejection, we can emerge stronger, wiser, and more resilient, embracing our true potential without being held captive by the judgments of others.

Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” – Charles R. Swindoll

In your day be courageous, confident, and curious.

Your Friend

Trev.

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