Why Some People Are Trying to Get Rejected
Midjourney
The Trend: Anyone who’s ever been left on read knows that sinking feeling when your text goes unanswered. As social creatures, rejection can hurt so much that many of us avoid putting ourselves out there in the first place. Enter “rejection therapy.” One influencer recently went viral tracking her goal of collecting 1,000 rejections in a little red notebook (think applying for brand deals and acting gigs she might not land). Now, creators across TikTok are asking strangers for free subway swipes or pitching themselves for toothpaste sponsorships.
What People Are Saying: The practice stems from Jason Comely, a Canadian IT guy who created the Rejection Therapy card game in 2009 after a painful divorce left him withdrawn and fearful. Fans say it builds confidence by flipping the script on failure, though some worry it normalizes pushing boundaries in uncomfortable and socially awkward ways.
What to Know: This is a form of exposure therapy, a legit psychological technique. By intentionally seeking rejection, you learn the sting isn’t nearly as painful as you might think. Plus, all those “nos” can lead to some unexpected “yeses” and other opportunities along the way.
