In the last few weeks, we at HappLab received communications rejecting a few of the manuscripts. Some of our team members got disheartened, some began to question the premise, some started to confront the decision, some thought of reflecting, and some accepted it as a learning and commenced their journey for a fresh restart. While I was pondering on this, I began to think about all kinds of rejections that we encounter and how we reflect on them to take things forward with better focus and fresh energy. And how we restart our journey forward to taste the fruits of our honest efforts.
We face rejection and learn, we succeed and move, we toil and achieve, we focus and accomplish. Rejection perse need not be considered as an unwelcoming occurrence. Rejection leaves behind a pool of learning to dive into and find the pearls. At times the feeling of rejection deflates our enthusiasm. Yet if we consider it to be an unavoidable companion of life, we improve, we evolve, and a finer version of ourselves emanates. It is an inevitable part of life, woven into the fabric of our experiences in careers, relationships, and even creative pursuits.
Rejection holds the potential to be a powerful catalyst for growth and positive change. It can usher in a period of reflection, a chance to step back, analyze, and ultimately use the experience to propel ourselves toward a successful restart.
Initially, rejection is accompanied by a wave of emotions – disappointment, frustration, or even self-doubt. And it becomes extremely difficult to acknowledge these feelings openly and honestly. It is in this moment of time that one needs a genuine friend and a trusted guide, teacher, or mentor. It is such a moment that makes or breaks an individual.
The real purpose of education is to empower you to handle these moments cautiously and successfully. However, dwelling on them or internalizing a narrative of inadequacy hinders progress. Herein lies the power of honest and unbiased reflection, a process akin to a caterpillar meticulously spinning its cocoon before transforming into a butterfly.
At times writing or sharing one’s feelings relieves the person. Once we know that ups and downs are part of life and are the real tests for which education prepares us, we tend to deal with rejection better. This is what reflection does.
Reflection is the bridge between the sting of rejection and the promise of a fresh start. It is about analyzing the situation objectively.
- What is the prime reason of rejection?
- What is the merit of the reviewer’s comment?
- Which step did I miss?
- Was the methodology proposed followed effectively?
- Where was the major problem?
- What are the areas of improvement that I need to focus?
By thinking and reflecting, we turn rejection into a valuable learning experience. This introspection helps us understand what we can control and what lies outside our control. It empowers us to refine our approach for future endeavors and submissions.
Finally, after acknowledging the emotions and gleaning valuable insights, we arrive at the all-important restart. This is not simply a matter of trying again; it is about applying the lessons learned from reflection. It might involve improving our skills, altering our approach, or even redirecting our efforts towards a better-suited opportunity. The key is to act on the insights gained and move forward with renewed determination.
The cycle of rejection, reflection, and restart is a continuous one, mirroring the natural world’s cyclical processes of growth and renewal. Throughout our careers, we will inevitably encounter setbacks. However, by embracing this cycle, we cultivate resilience, a key virtue for navigating the ever-evolving professional landscape. It equips us with the tools to overcome challenges, adapt to changing circumstances, and navigate unforeseen obstacles with a newfound sense of confidence.
Remember, countless success stories – from groundbreaking scientific discoveries initially met with skepticism to iconic businesses built on the ashes of failed ventures – illustrate the power of perseverance in the face of rejection.
I get reminded of a recent Bollywood movie – 12th Fail based on the real story of an IPS officer (Manoj Sharma). After failing in the 12th exam how he deals with it and succeeds. His journey from a village in the state of MP to Delhi for preparation for civil service is brilliantly presented by an accomplished director Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The life story of this IPS officer is incredibly inspiring reiterating the power of persistence and resilience at one side and the spirit of restarting on the other side. There is one more reason personally for me to celebrate the success of this iconic movie, my cousin Manav Shrotriya was nominated for the filmfare award in the category of best audio designer for this hindi movie. He has been there in Mumbai for past decade and working on different projects. It is this time that he has been able to showcase his talent at a wider and larger level, drawing accolades from cinema critics and lovers.
Rejection may be an unwelcome guest, but by treating it as a teacher rather than a foe, we can transform it into a springboard for a more fulfilling and successful journey. It is a reminder that growth often lies beyond our comfort zones, waiting to be discovered in the wake of a setback.
So, the next time rejection comes knocking, embrace the cycle of reflection and restart. It might just be the push you need to reach new heights.
So, the next time when a manuscript gets rejected, we need to internalise the causes and work upon them to improve the manuscript.
So, my dear friends, rejection or/and failure is the foundation on which the castle of success stands.
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Education, Students, and Motivation
4 thoughts on “REJECTION, REFLECTION, AND RESTART”
Very enlightening and inspiring article sir.
Very fine analysis of rejection and taking it so positively is commendable,will done vijaya bhai,may God give you strength and energy to keep it up.your innocent efforts are appreciable.
Once again, an excellent article, sir. Indeed, rejection is hard; it brings us down, but if we have good company, we can definitely reflect and restart with new approach, whether it acadimics academics, competitive exams , sports or, more accurately, our life. Good wishes for your congratulations on his success, too.
The article is a landmark, strengthening many who face rejection in publications. We all talk about success, but rejections or successful trials should also be discussed, and this article fills that void.
On the one hand, due to the vast number of papers received, journals are rejecting. Otherwise, they may also allow revising.
On the other hand, for researchers, the pressure to publish more in less time to achieve specific targets takes away the actual joy of creativity and an eye for detail. Still, some need help to afford the heavy APC and proofreading services.
Another view is that you are successful, but publishers cannot buy your idea because they cannot appreciate it, as JK Rowling was rejected many times.
Nevertheless, we may reflect and improve with every rejection, but it requires great courage to revisit and resubmit in time before the idea becomes old. Journals can aid in it by giving timely feedback or publication.