Today, Ceri talks about rejection. Something that is a part of every artist’s life - Applications declined. Emails ignored. Opportunities missed. And let’s be honest—it stings. For many artists, especially those who are neurodivergent, it doesn’t just sting. It burns.
There’s even a name for this: Rejection Sensitivity. It’s more than hurt feelings—it can feel like an existential threat, a collapse, a shame spiral. Maybe you’ve avoided applying. Withdrawn from people. Overreacted to feedback. If so, you’re not alone.
But here’s the good news: you’re not broken. This is a common pattern, and you can learn ways to soften its impact. In this episode, Ceri walks you through some steps and reflections to help you notice rejection, reframe it, and keep creating.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
• Unchecked rejection sensitivity quietly shapes careers. It can hold you back from applying, make you quit too soon and keep you isolated. Or you may overcompensate, work twice as hard, say yes to everything and people-please your way into exhaustion.
• Ceri shares 10 steps for dealing with rejection in a healthy way, so you can recognise, reflect on, reframe and learn from rejection and carry on creating.
• If you have a rejection that you are still hanging onto, reframe it today. Release yourself from the negativity that surrounds rejection. You don´t have to let it continue to hold you back. You can choose to release yourself.
BEST MOMENTS
“Rejection is not proof you don’t belong. It’s proof you’re showing up.”
“Rejection isn’t the enemy. Silence isn’t the enemy. Avoidance is. Not showing up is. And you—you’re already showing up. That’s where the magic begins.”
“Step one is to recognise the pattern. First you have to notice it. Rejection shows up in emotions, the stories we tell ourselves and in the body - a tight chest, a racing heart, a stomach drop.”
EPISODE RESOURCES
If you prefer reading over listening? Ceri shares a short version of every episode in her Beat the Block newsletter—delivered to your inbox every Friday. Sign up at www.cerihand.com/subscribe
PODCAST HOST BIO
With over 35 years in the art world, Ceri has worked closely with leading artists and arts professionals, managed public and private galleries and charities, and curated more than 250 exhibitions and events. She sold artworks to major museums and private collectors and commissioned thousands of works across diverse media, from renowned artists such as John Akomfrah, Pipilotti Rist, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Vito Acconci. Now, she wants to share her extensive knowledge with you, so you can excel and achieve your goals.
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Book a Discovery Call Today
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This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
