Fear of Rejection
Shawn Byler
Do you fear rejection? Of course, we all do to varying degrees. Some are driven by it, most experience it daily. We make choices, think obsessive thoughts, and take many actions based on trying to keep rejection at bay. This is a challenging way to live.
So what is the “fear of rejection” stopping you from?
- Making necessary sales calls
- Starting a business
- Asking for the promotion you’ve wanted for years
- Asking for what we want from a loved one or lover
- Simply speaking our mind or saying what you want
- Asking someone for a date
Take Action!
Spend some time this week determining where fear of rejection is stopping you. Check yourself throughout the day by asking, “why did I choose this?”, “why am I thinking this way?”, “why am I acting this way?”
I’m sure you’ll be surprised at the answers!
Thank you for your time, enjoy your month releasing fear of rejection!
Shawn Byler is a professional coach who thrives on working with women to achieve personal and professional success. She is highly intuitive, creative, and professional; with the ability to help her clients establish and maintain focus to achieve their goals. Shawn has Ph.D. in Psychology and a Masters degree in Psychological Therapy and Counseling from Logos University, along with minors in both Communication, and Organizational Leadership and Supervision. Shawn received her coach training with Coach University, Intentional University, and The Thomas Leonard Schools of Coaching. A certified Temperament Therapist, Shawn has thirteen years of performance coaching experience within the gymnastics industry, and eight years of experience working in Training and Development. She is a certified diplomat of the National Institute of Sports Division, and a member of GCCA and GCA. Shawn uses her skills in problem-solving, strategic planning, and brainstorming to help her clients achieve success. Shawn thrives on providing support and leadership to those who are ready to take action!

June 18th, 2008 at 11:09 am
I like the way you think, Shawn. Another question to ask ourselves could be “What is the worst thing that could happen?” Nine times out of ten, we can handle that worst case scenario, which means we need to push through our fear.
June 19th, 2008 at 7:56 am
In the last 6 months this has been something I have actively been working through. I love the feeling of confidence in myself I have gained by just going for things that a few months ago I would not have tried. And I have found that each time I try something new, it is that much easier the next time to try something else!
June 19th, 2008 at 8:08 am
I’ll say this - there is nothing like working on commission only to blow fear of rejection out of the water.
Not that rejection ever gets to feeling good, but when your rent and groceries depends on getting over your fear of “no,” it’s amazing how quickly you do. You never love it, but it quickly fades from something you fear to something that’s merely annoying. When you get to that point, dealing with rejection becomes less like fighting a dragon and more like fighting your way through cobwebs to get at the treasure.
My guess is that it’s a matter of risk; as Kim said, asking yourself what’s the worst that could happen. In that situation, rejection isn’t the worst that can happen - not getting past it is. So you do. It’s amazing sometimes how incredibly adaptable the brain is.
June 26th, 2008 at 8:46 pm
Your message reminded me of something a dear mentor shared with me some time ago: “No one can reject you, unless you give it that interpretation.” It’s helped me enormously.