The fear of rejection is widespread. This instinctive emotion paralyzes and hinders us from doing the things we really want to do. Perhaps more than anything else, we fear losing approval from others. Fear of rejection is really our fear of hurt and pain.
In our efforts to avoid these unpleasant feelings, we engage in dangerous and unhealthy behaviors. So, instead of the fear keeping us safe and alert, it causes us to lose the very thing we fear losing.
For instance, we isolate from people rather than risk reaching out. We silence ourselves from friends and family rather than communicating. We reject others to avoid being rejected. Or we bend over backwards to please others rather than practice assertiveness.
Fear of rejection can result in very destructive emotional and behavioral problems such as codependency, clinginess, obsessiveness, manipulation, submission, dangerous sexual practices, self-pity, excessive self-sacrifice, jealousy and anger and rage in relationships.
If you are in this situation, then the sooner you seek therapy, the sooner you can move on. Fear of rejection and the unhealthy behavior patterns that develop as a result of this fear are very responsive to therapy. Therapy helps you become more confident and less afraid of yourself. As a result, you become less intimidated by rejection and become more empowered to love and be loved.
Carrie
