When I was writing my last blog post, I received three rejections on that day. One was a canceled or postponed meeting, the second was an involvement in a project that didn’t get funding, and the third was about not being included in a group.

A few years ago, this would have left me blaming myself, asking, “What’s wrong with me? Why wasn’t I chosen? Why does nothing go my way?” You know the thrill—digging a hole that’s hard to get yourself out of.

Now, I see it as a blessing. I’m utterly thankful for those moments when life has shown me the true colors of people. I’m not saying the experience is pleasant or enjoyable, but I now view it as a form of protection and guidance.

Sadly, I’ve encountered many rejections in my life—both personal and professional. When I was just starting out in the event design field, I faced rejection after rejection. I didn’t understand what I was doing wrong, why nothing was moving, or why it was happening at all. It really does dig a deep hole in your self-confidence.

Later on, I heard some stories about companies or people with whom my cooperation hadn’t moved forward. I’m not suggesting you should believe everything you hear, but when many people share the same story, it starts to make an impact.

Today, I can look at these rejections with just one thought: “Okay, interesting. Let’s see what shows up next.” It’s like cleaning out your closet: when you do that, you leave room for new things, a clear space, and better visibility of what you already have.

Sometimes, you’re pushed to make decisions on your own, and other times, life just takes care of things for you.

Like many of us, I too struggled with the question, “Why wasn’t I chosen? What does everyone else have that I don’t?” I can confirm that there is nothing wrong with any of us. Even when I was constantly jelled at during a difficult period of my life, “What’s wrong with you?” I can still tell you, there’s nothing wrong with me—or with you. You’re not meant to be for everyone.

I really liked how Marisa Peer’s concept of “being chosen” is explained. I know some may have experienced rejection early in life from their parents or caregivers, but I’ll repeat Marisa’s words: You are already chosen. You are chosen to live this life. LIFE chose YOU. Something much higher chose you to be here. So, never ever think that you are a leftover or broken piece that doesn’t belong. You just haven’t found the right fit—whether that’s the right work, the right people, the right partner, or whatever is stressing you out right now.

Never give up. If something doesn’t work, try a different approach. And if that doesn’t work, try another, and then another.

In my own growth, I’ve lost most of my friends. I still have one old school friend I talk to from time to time. So yes, I, too, have been seeking like-minded people. I’ve wanted to have MY tribe, MY vibe, people who truly see ME. When I received the news that I wasn’t permanently welcomed into a group, I was actually relieved because I had already felt that it wasn’t right. There had been circumstances and events that left me feeling uncomfortable. And you always know what’s right for you or not by how you feel. If it doesn’t leave you feeling joyful or uplifted, it’s not for you.

There really is no point in giving your energy or time to something that doesn’t make you feel good. Life is too short to drink bad wine, as some magnets on the fridge might say 🙂

So, just stay curious. Just say, “Interesting. Let’s see what comes next,” or, “Let’s see, how will this mess be cleared out of my way?”