Embracing Rejection: A Journey Towards Self-Discovery
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Chapter 1: The Inevitable Rejections
Even the most accomplished creators face rejection. For those feeling inadequate: don’t let this deter you from your creative pursuits. You possess the talent needed; sometimes, it's simply a matter of not aligning with what others are seeking.
No matter what your aspirations are, you will encounter setbacks on your path. I had initially calculated that my dream was unattainable. However, as I began writing, I soon realized it was indeed within reach. My ambition was to attend a theater school. I would have been happy at any art institution, but my heart was set on the entrance exam for The Art University, and that became my goal.
To my astonishment, I progressed to the first stage of the examination; it felt like winning the lottery. When I moved on to the next phase and received accolades from the judges, I felt like I was floating. I had performed well, received positive feedback, and walked away feeling fulfilled, having given it my all. As I prepared to check my email for the next stage results, I expected disappointment. However, instead of that dreaded message, I received an invitation to continue on in the process.
A friend captured my reaction on video as I discovered the news, which included a list of notable actors I would be working with. I had never experienced such a mix of shock and joy as I did in that moment. The message also contained assignments due the following day.
I recall lying on my living room floor, sketching, writing, and reflecting. After a week of relentless preparation, I suddenly felt overwhelmed by the realization that my work might not meet expectations. Though I had crafted a solid plan, it was simply good, and I had come to understand that good was no longer enough. The pressure I felt now was far greater than what I’d experienced before; I was proud to have made it this far.
Section 1.1: The Final Stretch
There were only eight of us remaining, and a professional had informed me that anyone reaching this final group was capable of succeeding at the school. Perhaps that’s why I felt composed while presenting my assignments the next day, recognizing from the expressions of the judges that they shared my doubts.
Ultimately, I didn’t advance further. However, I still achieved a significant milestone. The school only admitted four students from our group of eight. When I later learned that one of them had been rejected, I felt a sense of relief that it wasn’t me. That would have been painful. Instead, I had a lengthy, private conversation with one of the judges, who affirmed that my analysis of my final assignment was accurate, and I even received praise for my insights. They invited me to return the following year, assuring me that I could succeed by avoiding the one mistake that had held me back.
Chapter 2: Rising from Rejection
I applied again, and by chance, the preliminary assignments mirrored those from the previous year. However, I was weary and carried a familiar feeling of inadequacy regarding my last submission. I was anxious about whether I could give my all this time. What propelled me forward was the knowledge that the assignments wouldn’t be graded; I just needed to submit them to qualify for the examination — then I would showcase my true potential.
The first video title is "I Tried To Get Rejected As Many Times As Possible (In One Year) - YouTube." This video explores the value of embracing rejection and how it can serve as a stepping stone towards personal growth and resilience.
The second video title is "Tiktok Shop: How to Get Approved After You Get Denied - YouTube." This video provides strategies for overcoming initial setbacks in approval processes, emphasizing persistence and adaptability.
I faced rejection once more. The finalist from the previous year, who had been encouraged to apply again and commended for my creativity and diligence, was now the first to be turned away. The blow was hard to take.
I felt anger towards myself, frustration for not pushing harder, and regret for giving up too soon. In the following nights, I scoured the internet for different schools, courses, and articles to improve my skills, even though it wouldn't change the outcome of the exam I had been turned down from. In my search, I discovered other educational opportunities and new interests that reignited my creativity. Most importantly, I found my inspiration once again.
Now, that hit hard.