The fear of rejection is a deep emotional concern about being excluded, criticized, or not accepted by others. It often stems from past experiences, low self-esteem, or unmet emotional needs. While it's a natural human feeling, it can become overwhelming and start to interfere with daily life.
This fear can manifest in many ways, including:
- People-pleasing or putting others’ needs above your own to gain approval
- Avoiding vulnerability or intimacy to prevent potential rejection
- Overanalyzing conversations and worrying excessively about how others perceive you
- Withdrawing from social situations or opportunities to avoid the risk of failure or disapproval
- Staying in unfulfilling relationships out of fear of being alone
Over time, fear of rejection can affect your confidence, relationships, and mental well-being. The good news is, with the right support, it's possible to break free from its grip and build healthier patterns of thinking and relating.