From Rejections to Redirection: How Setbacks Led Me to the Job I Needed

There was a time, not too long ago, when my inbox was filled with polite rejection emails—some from PhD programs I worked so hard to apply to, others from local jobs I thought I was qualified for. The worst case was not even hearing from the professors from universities abroad or HRs of private companies that I sent my CV to. But just the same, each rejection (or ghosting) felt like a door slammed shut. I questioned my worth, my path, and even my dreams. I remember crying during a video call with my husband about the rejections that really took a hit on my self-esteem.

But today, I write this from the comfort of a recent role that I took on that not only pays well but aligns with my skills, values, and goals. Looking back, I can now say with clarity: those rejections weren’t failures—they were redirections.

The Waiting and the Worry 

Rejection emails hurt, especially when you’ve poured your heart into an application. I remember refreshing my inbox, hoping for that “Congratulations!” and instead getting silence, or worse—a kindly worded “Unfortunately…”

What made it harder was how much I wanted those opportunities. A PhD in a field I loved. A job that seemed secure. But I learned: wanting something deeply doesn’t always mean it’s meant for you—at least not at that time.

Lessons in the Letdowns 

Each “no” gave me pause—and space to reflect. Was I applying out of fear or alignment? Was I chasing titles or true purpose? With every closed door, I was unknowingly being nudged in a different direction. I learned to sit with uncertainty and to keep showing up anyway, just because I know I can work hard for a role if only given the chance.

The Unexpected Yes 

Then came an opportunity that, strangely enough, felt… easy. The application process wasn’t a stressful scramble or a series of overthinking marathons—it flowed. The interviews went smoothly, too. Just like with the many I’d done over the past year, I showed up with honesty—talking about both my strengths and my weaknesses, because I’ve always believed that being real is the best way to go.

But this time felt different. Like the universe had finally decided to give me a break.

And then, the call came.

The day I got the call from HR, I went completely silent. Not just a polite pause—but the kind of silence that makes people wonder if the line got cut or if you’re secretly fainting in a corner. Seconds stretched into what felt like decades, until the HR officer, with a touch of panic creeping into his voice, finally asked, “So… how do you feel about the news?”

I burst out laughing and apologized like someone who had just accidentally muted a wedding toast. I told him I was just in shock—because honestly, I was. After a series of “We regret to inform yous” and “We’ve gone with another candidate whos,” I had become emotionally fluent in rejection. So when someone actually said I got the job, my brain took a moment (or ten) to reboot.

He chuckled and reassured me that the decision came from my future boss to whom I will directly report and the head of the team. He set up a follow-up meeting to discuss the offer, and by then, I had mostly regained my ability to form complete sentences.

And when the official offer landed in my inbox after a Zoom meeting with HR, it felt like a puzzle piece sliding neatly into place. It wasn’t what I originally pictured for myself—no fireworks or slow-motion movie scenes—but somehow, it was everything I needed. And then some.

Gratitude in Hindsight 

It’s funny how things work out. The pain of rejection can blur the bigger picture, but now I see that the universe—or life, or whatever you believe in—was guiding me all along. I didn’t fail; I was redirected.

To anyone dealing with rejection right now, please know this: you’re not alone. The job, the degree, the opportunity meant for you is still out there. And sometimes, a “no” is the kindest way life can steer you toward the “yes” you truly deserve.

Because looking back, I realize I wasn’t being pushed away. I was being led home.

xoxo,

Grass