How a Mentorship Program Helped Me Develop an Essential Skill
Rejection can be disheartening, but learning how to recover and grow from it is essential. During the Emerging Women Leaders seminar “Reflections on Rejections” led by Dr. Sarah Lipson, we engaged in an insightful conversation about handling rejections in our careers. Here are the three lessons I took away:
Know When to Move On
Early in your career, it can take a significant amount of time and effort to prepare applications for grants or other opportunities. Receiving a rejection after investing so much can be painful, and a second rejection on resubmission can feel even worse. While persistence is often seen as a virtue, there are moments when it’s better to shift direction. Letting go can open doors to other opportunities that might prove more fruitful.
Keep Moving Forward
The journey through academia and professional growth is full of ups and downs. It’s important to stay open to both success and failure, accepting that neither is permanent. Holding onto one victory or one disappointment too tightly won’t serve you in the long run. What matters most is how you navigate each experience and continue moving forward. There is always another opportunity just around the corner, so keep riding the ride
Rejection Is a Gift of Time
Rejection is not a reflection of our value. It is simply part of the academic process. Learning not to fear rejection is important for personal growth. Each “no” can be seen as constructive feedback rather than a final judgment on your abilities. Embrace rejections as opportunities to refine your work and refocus your energy.
Learning how to manage rejection is essential for leaders. It is never easy, but what truly matters is how we respond. Thanks to Emerging Women Leaders’ supportive seminars, I’ve learned to handle setbacks with resilience, and I encourage others to explore the resources they offer.
