Setbacks and failures are a normal part of life. Without them, we wouldn’t appreciate the successes. It’s important to remember that the creative arts is a competitive industry; particularly if you are a performer. We have compiled our best tips for handling rejection so that you begin to feel better the next time you experience it.
Change how you perceive setbacks
It’s natural to feel upset when you don’t land a job or an audition, and you are completely within your rights to feel those emotions. However, it’s always useful to look at the bigger picture. Everything happens for a reason and failures bring you one step closer to success. Try to view setbacks as a learning experience by analysing what went well and what could have been done better. Use this knowledge for the next interview or audition and you’ll soon be where you want to be.
Focus on what you already have
Usually, when we are so caught up in rejection, we ponder over the ‘what if’s?’ and self-depricate. Think about what you already have acquired in your life. Perhaps you have a wonderful family, or you recently invested in a home studio. There are so many things to be grateful for; even if it’s as simple as the fresh cup of coffee you drank that morning. When we think about all the great things we already have, the latest setback doesn’t seem so bad now does it?
Remember that every single person on the planet has experienced setbacks; even Beyonce…
Every successful person that you look up to has experienced failure in one way or another; every single one. You are not alone. The difference is how you respond to it. Successful people learn from them and press forward and that is exactly what you should do too!
Move forward
Life is too short to stress over failures. The only time you should ever look back is to see how far you’ve come. Life is about moving forward and leaving the past behind. Learn from it, yes, but continue to move towards your goals every day. Your next big opportunity could be just around the corner and you need to be prepared.
So the next time you experience a set back, keep these tips in mind. Continue to strive for the things that you want whilst being content with what you already have. If you are still struggling with failure and it’s been weeks or even months, there are plenty of self-help books for dealing with this sort of thing. Check out ‘You are a badass: How to stop doubting your greatness and start living an awesome life’ by Jen Sincero.
Our social media accounts have already brought together hundreds of people in the creative arts industries. Reach out to someone. Chances are, they have experienced similar setbacks. Speaking with other people may help you to get through a recent failure.