How to Handle Being Turned Down

Everyone experiences rejection, despite what movies and romance novels may tell us.

However, even though rejection is a natural part of the dating process, the prospect of being turned down can be frightening and even make you decide to avoid dating in the first place.

Here are some ways to deal with a fear of rejection:

- Recognize that you are afraid of being rejected, and that this is a normal fear that is experienced by everyone who dates.

- Ask yourself, "What's the worst that could happen?" Will being rejected make you feel worse about yourself? Will you be humiliated in front of others? Think about what this says about your self-esteem.

If you have been turned down, try to remain positive. Tell yourself that you are not going to let the opinion of one person make you feel bad about yourself. Focus on emphasizing your good qualities and attracting people who appreciate them.

Spend time with people who make you happy, doing things that you enjoy. You might meet someone else that way. Avoid being around negative people.

Think about why you were rejected. Is there anything you could change about yourself to decrease your chances of being turned down in the future? We can all find ways to improve ourselves.

However, you shouldn't completely change your personality just to avoid being rejected. You don't want to attract someone who doesn't like the real you.

There may not be anything that you need to change at all. You just might not have been "the one" that the other person has been looking for.

Letting your feelings out can help you feel better. Talk to your friends and family members. Don't be afraid to cry or to scream. If you are having a great deal of difficulty handling your emotions, consider getting counseling.

Remember that being rejected can be a good thing. It's better to be turned down before a relationship has begun than to have to endure a difficult relationship than a painful breakup.

Besides, being rejected by Mr. or Ms. Wrong frees you up for Mr. or Ms. Right.

There are times when two people just aren't meant to be together. Sometimes, you may need to reject someone yourself. You should end a relationship if the other person bullies you, constantly criticizes you or treats you with disrespect.