Selection vs. Rejection ~> Dejection? March 24, 2011
Posted by nrhatch in Life Balance, Writing & Writers.comments closed
Every time we put ourselves “out there,” there’s a risk we won’t be selected.
Whether we’re running for office, applying for a job, entering a contest, submitting a manuscript for consideration, or even tossing out what we perceive to be an amusing anecdote or cerebral comment at a cocktail party, we may be rejected by our peers.
We often have little control over the natural selection/rejection process inherent in life ~ what we are offering may not be what they are looking for at that moment in time.
What we can control is our response to the process:
* When we are selected, we can puff out our chests and scream, “I won! I won! I won!” . . . or we can take “the selection” in stride.
* When we are not selected, and are left standing on the sidelines, we can collapse into a puddle of tears and sigh, “Why did I bother?” . . . or we can take “the rejection” in stride.
Rejection, on reflection, need not lead to dejection. Sometimes we lose when we win . . . and sometimes we win when we lose.
How we choose to relate to the issue IS the issue.
Back Stage Pass did not get selected as one of 20 semi-finalists in the Show Me Your Voice Contest. I am not dejected by “the rejection.”
Just the opposite . . .
Instead of burning the midnight oil to make every word in the first twenty pages shine between now and Monday when the top 3 finalists are announced, I can relax and enjoy my weekend with BFF.
Congratulations, Julie ~ Good Luck to you and the other 19 semi-finalists!
For those left standing on the sidelines, repeat after me: I was in the right place, but it must have been the wrong time.
No rules. Just write!
Spirit Lights The Way 