Interview: How to Combat Rejection & Negativity with Joanna Collins

Joanna Collins is a trained therapist who is called to listen to the hearts of the broken and help people create a healthier future for themselves. 

Three Forms of Rejection:

1. Buddy System - when the editor/magazine/etc. decides to go with a friend instead. This is when the idea that it's all about who you know really kicks in.
2. Silent Treatment - when we put our best work out there but we never hear back, not even a rejection letter.
3. Expiration - when we hear a definitive no back from the gatekeeper, often considered the most painful form of rejection.

After receiving the expiration rejection, creatives often take those words and store them in their hearts. This leads us to the dreaded self-critic. 

Identify your self-critic and bend your self-talk to truth using the VOUCH method.

• V - vulnerability. Have you been open and vulnerable with those closest to you about your situation?
• O - open. Are you being open to other opportunities. Perhaps even recognizing that this must not be your best yes if it wasn't their best yes. A better fit may be just around the corner.
• U - understanding. Are you being understanding to both parties? They can't say yes to everything, but you're still entitled to mourn the loss.
• C - compassion. Are you being compassionate with yourself? Give yourself grace enough to acknowledge your hurt, and then speak kindly to yourself. Don't buy into hurtful talk. Get rid of it.
• H - honor. Make sure that you're honoring yourself as a creative in everything you think and say. 

Self-care for a Creative:

• Get quality sleep. 
• Believe in yourself and your art.
• Have a great support system.