Sometimes I wonder if I will ever get a full-time job with benefits. My parents always encourage me to write full-time instead of pursuing traditional employment opportunities. This is partly because they believe in my talent. They worry about my inability to afford necessary care through regular insurance.

However, I know they used insurance from their jobs to help with my medical expenses before I qualified for Medicare and Medicaid when I turned eighteen. It’s possible, but it may require more money out of pocket.

As a result, I never worked a job after school. All of my experience has been in internships and unpaid opportunities. Job searching comes with a lot of rejection, but so does publishing. Rejection in publishing can come from publishers, agents, social media influencers, book reviews, and awards.

Rejection can come in many forms. For example, you have a crush on someone. You ask them out for coffee or lunch, and they say no. Being rejected for a date is only one way a person can feel deflated.  The answer may not always be a yes. 

Here are a few tips to deal with the sting of rejection.

Nothing Changes 

You move on to the next goal. A better opportunity awaits. Each rejection takes you one step toward accomplishing your goal. If you stop because of rejection, you’ll never achieve your dreams. Don’t give up as life may have different plans that could lead to something even better.

Improve your Skills

Seize the moment for new possibilities. Hubspot Academy and Google have certification courses to help you stand out. Read the qualifications for your dream job and find the best way to learn them. It’s better to be proactive rather than be miserable.

Listen to Music 

Listening to music is one off my favorite ways to pass the time while filling out job applications. It aids my mental state and maintains my focus on the task.

Give Yourself a Reward 

It can be something small. Read your favorite book. Make yourself a special treat. Rewards are excellent motivation to get through boring tasks.

Rejection happens, but it may lead you to a path you never considered. It may help turn you into the person you are meant to become. The fact is, you cannot let rejection stop you from living your life. Openness to life’s possibilities is essential for happiness.