Introduction: The Song You Didn’t Ask to Hear
Rejection doesn’t just hit once and fade away—it sings like a melody, looping in your mind with every setback. For me, this song played loud and clear as I navigated building Fun on the Run Plus One. Investors politely declined. Deadlines slipped through my fingers. My plans kept shifting further away from my dreams, and the melody of rejection grew louder with every “no.”
But here’s the thing about melodies: they don’t have to stay the same. You can rewrite them, find the harmony, and create something entirely new. Rejection may have started the tune, but resilience will write the chorus.
When Rejection Becomes Background Music
Rejection doesn’t come softly—it arrives with a rhythm that can echo in your soul:
- The silent refrain of unanswered emails.
- The staccato of missed opportunities.
- The haunting chorus of “Maybe this isn’t for you.”
As I pushed back launch dates, lost my job, and struggled to secure investments, rejection started to sound less like a passing note and more like the theme song of my life. It made me question my value, my purpose, and whether this dream of mine was even worth pursuing.
But then I realized: This isn’t the final song. It’s just the opening verse.
How I Found a New Rhythm
- I Decided to Dance to My Own Beat
Rejection may have its melody, but I refused to let it dictate my moves. I chose to lean into the process, to see every “no” as a chance to adjust, recalibrate, and strengthen my vision. - I Changed the Lyrics
Instead of letting rejection sing “You’re not enough,” I rewrote it to say “You’re getting closer.” Each setback became a stepping stone, and I reminded myself:
- The right investors will come.
- The perfect launch time will align.
- This dream is worth the fight.
- I Focused on the Music That Matters
My daughter’s laughter. My mother’s unwavering support. My own faith. These were the sounds that reminded me I wasn’t alone in this journey. While rejection sang its melody, the love and encouragement around me became the harmony I needed to keep going. - I Waited for the Crescendo
Every song has its build-up, its moment when the music swells and everything comes together. I realized that setbacks weren’t the end—they were the tension before the breakthrough.
Rejection is a Verse, Not the Whole Song
When rejection sings like a melody, it’s easy to feel like you’re stuck in a loop. But that melody doesn’t define the entire song—it’s just one verse in a much larger composition. And I’m still writing mine.
Sure, it hasn’t been easy. Losing my job, pushing back launch dates, and navigating the uncertainty of entrepreneurship has tested me in ways I never imagined. But every day, I choose to believe that this journey isn’t just about the struggle—it’s about the growth, the lessons, and the ultimate reward.
The Song I’m Singing Now
Today, I’m still building Fun on the Run Plus One. The melody of rejection still lingers at times, but I’ve learned how to harmonize it with resilience, hope, and purpose:
- I’m creating a platform that will combat loneliness and uplift mental health.
- I’m building something that will change lives, even if it takes longer than I planned.
- I’m honoring the vision that was placed in my heart, knowing it’s bigger than any setback.
This is the song I’m singing now—a melody of perseverance, faith, and determination.
Closing Thoughts: Rewrite the Melody
Rejection may sing its melody, but it doesn’t have to define your song. You can choose to rewrite the lyrics, change the tune, and create a symphony of resilience and triumph.
If you’re facing setbacks, remember: the melody of rejection is just one part of your story. The crescendo—the breakthrough—is coming.
What about you? How do you rewrite the melody of rejection in your life? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re finding your rhythm.
