‘I would go to bed crying, but then the next day…’: Vidya Balan opens up about the darkest period of her career

Rejection stings. Whether it’s a job application, a creative pursuit, or even a romantic approach; being told “no” can be discouraging.

Vidya Balan on facing rejection (Source: Express Photo by Arul Horizon)

Facing rejection in a professional setting can feel crushing. Knowing how to detach and navigate failures can help us become resilient and push through the obstacles life throws at us. Vidya Balan has experienced fame, wealth, and success in a flourishing Bollywood career, but her journey did not start off easy. In a conversation with Rodrigo Canelas on his Something Bigger talk show, the Kahaani actor opened up about one of the darkest phases of her life.

Talking about the beginning days of her career, she shared: “My parents began to pray that, ‘let just one film work out for her’, even if she doesn’t have a career as an actor — because they could see the kind of rejection and frustration I was experiencing. You know, you want your child to be happy. I didn’t give up. I would go to bed crying, but then the next day I would wake up and say, ‘One more day, let’s see what happens today’.

Rejection stings. Whether it’s a job application, a creative pursuit, or even a romantic approach, being told “no” can be discouraging.

Dr Divya Shree K R, consultant psychiatrist, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, said, “Understanding the complexity of a ‘victory’ in today’s world and the interplay of affluence, influence, and luck is important in evaluating each rejection as it comes and helps us assign blame and assume responsibility for the right reason.”

Vidya Balan on facing rejection at work (Source: Instagram/@vidyabalan)

However, rejection is still a normal part of life, and it doesn’t define your worth. Here’s how to bounce back and turn setbacks into stepping stones:

1. Acknowledge your feelings: It’s okay to feel hurt, angry, or disappointed. Bottling up emotions can hinder healing. Allow yourself to process your feelings in a healthy way, like journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or engaging in a creative outlet.

2. Reframe the narrative: Don’t view rejection as a personal failure. Instead, see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Maybe your skills need some honing, or perhaps the timing wasn’t right.

Story continues below this ad

3. Analyse the situation: If the opportunity allows, try to understand the reasons for rejection. Did they provide any feedback? This can be valuable information to help you improve for next time. However, avoid excessive self-criticism.

4. Focus on the positive: Rejection doesn’t erase your strengths and accomplishments. Take a moment to appreciate your past successes, and remind yourself of your skills and value.

5. Learn and adapt: Use the experience as a learning opportunity. Did you discover a new skill gap you need to address? Perhaps your approach needs some tweaking. Growth comes from adapting to challenges.

6. Build Resilience: Rejection can be tough, but it also helps build resilience. Each time you overcome a setback, you become better equipped to handle future challenges.

Story continues below this ad

7. Celebrate small wins: Don’t get discouraged by aiming for giant leaps. Celebrate small victories along the way. This keeps you motivated and reminds you of your progress.

8. Keep moving forward: Don’t dwell on the rejection. Use it as motivation to keep striving towards your goals. There are many paths to success, so explore new opportunities and keep putting yourself out there.

📣 For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram