Rejection is one of the most defining experiences in any career journey.
When I was trying to move to Johannesburg, I kept hearing the same feedback:
“You don’t have Big Four experience.”
In other words:
“You’re not what we’re looking for.”
Behind the Scenes Insight
What people don’t realise is that repeated rejection doesn’t just test your patience.
It tests your identity.
At some point, you start asking:
Am I actually good enough?
That’s what failure does.
It doesn’t just challenge your ability, it challenges your identity.
The Identity Trap
The biggest mistake professionals make is this:
They start shrinking themselves to fit expectations.
Instead of owning who they are.
During one critical interview, I was faced with a choice.
Correct a mistake, or hide it.
“I passed on my third attempt.”
Silence.
Then:
“That’s even better. It shows resilience.”
“The moment you own your story, it stops being your weakness and becomes your strength.”
Authentic Leadership Builds Trust
People don’t connect with perfection.
They connect with:
That’s leadership.
Stop trying to present a perfect version of yourself.
Start owning your real story. That’s where your power lies.