Breaking into a competitive industry is rarely straightforward, and even those with family connections can find themselves struggling to land opportunities. Actor Aadar Jain recently shared, after nearly a decade of working to establish himself and making a return to the big screen after many years, “I've not taken those gaps out of choice. It's also been very difficult to get films. Coming from a film family doesn't mean you get work here easily. That's a fact. People talk about nepotism, but I've not got benefits of it.” Despite being related to some of the most recognised names in his field, he stressed that his path has been far from effortless. “Yes, I am Raj Kapoor's grandson, I am Kareena and Ranbir Kapoor's cousin, but that doesn't allow me to get 50 films a year or like doing five films and signing brand deals and endorsements nonstop. Unfortunately, in that sense, I've not been a product of nepotism,” he explained. Over the last eight years, he has auditioned for countless roles, often facing rejection. Still, he chooses to see these setbacks as lessons, drawing inspiration from others who have endured long career slumps and managed to bounce back. “Luckily, I have Dining with the Kapoors coming out, so hopefully things will pick up once people see my work. Because work gets you work. Until people see your work, you don't get work.” Aadar’s experience may seem like an exception, not the norm, but many of us go through repeated rejections in the work front. So, what can we learn from this? An expert helps us understand. How professionals in competitive industries can stay motivated when faced with repeated rejections over many years Counselling psychologist Athul Raj tells indianexpress.com, “In high-pressure industries, resilience is built less on talent and more on the ability to stay emotionally steady. Rejections can feel personal, but they’re often about timing, market needs, or fit. I encourage clients to focus on the process - showing up, honing their craft, and celebrating small wins.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aadar Jain (@aadarjain) He adds that breaking big dreams into achievable milestones keeps momentum alive. Having a network of peers who understand the grind helps normalise the ups and downs. Viewing rejection as feedback rather than a final verdict changes how you move forward, making the journey sustainable even when the wait is long. Strategies that can help someone get noticed for their skills and work when they feel overshadowed by perceptions about their background When others define you by your background, Raj mentions, the most effective response is to make your work speak louder than the assumptions. “This can mean building a visible portfolio through independent projects, collaborations, or platforms that showcase your abilities in real time. Be deliberate about networking, focusing on spaces where your skills are showcased. In conversations, lead with specific examples of creative problem-solving, dedication, and results,” says the expert. Turning career gaps into positive talking points A career gap doesn’t have to be a silent period - it can become a narrative of growth. Raj says, “I advise framing it as a time of intentional development: learning new skills, taking short-term projects, volunteering, or navigating personal challenges that build resilience. Explain how this period shaped your perspective and improved your adaptability. Employers value candidates who can turn challenges into strengths, and owning your story with confidence makes the gap a sign of resourcefulness rather than a liability.”
