Rejection and How to Avoid It

Rejection can be very painful. It’s easiest to address this and understand it through the wisdom of Spinoza.

Rejection and External Identification

Spinoza addresses this in his Ethics and says that the fear of rejection arise from our desires and attachments to external things. According to Spinoza, our happiness and well-being should not depend on external factors or the approval of others. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of understanding and aligning ourselves with the fundamental nature of reality.

In Spinoza’s philosophy, he argues that everything in the universe is governed by a deterministic causal chain. Our desires and attachments, including the fear of rejection, stem from our limited understanding of this causal chain and our mistaken belief that we are separate from the rest of nature. Spinoza suggests that by gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the world and recognizing our interconnectedness with it, we can achieve a sense of tranquility and liberation from that fear of being rejected.

True Happiness is Internal

Furthermore, Spinoza posits that true happiness lies in cultivating a rational and virtuous life. By focusing on reason and ethics, we can free ourselves from the fluctuations of external circumstances and find inner contentment. According to Spinoza, this requires embracing the power of reason, practicing self-reflection, and developing a deep sense of self-acceptance.

Rejection and what to do now?

In light of Spinoza’s teachings, I would encourage you to reflect on the source of your fear being rejected and examine the desires and attachments that may be driving it. Consider how your happiness and well-being can be independent of external validation. Focus on developing a strong sense of self, grounded in reason and ethics. Remember that when you sense that you are being rejected, it is often a subjective judgment of others and does not define your worth as a person. Embrace the interconnectedness of the world and seek fulfillment through internal growth rather than external validation.

How to get Assistance

Keep in mind that applying philosophical concepts to personal struggles can be challenging, and it may be helpful to seek additional support from mentors, counselors, or therapists who can provide guidance and help you navigate these issues more effectively.