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Why Does Rejection Hurt So Bad? - E5

Published on: 19th August, 2025

Minali shares her powerful story of facing an unexpected and crushing rejection from a fellowship program she thought was a sure thing. Joined by her sister Ishana and their mom Mona, the three dive into the emotional weight of rejection, generational differences in how we process it, and the surprising ways it can become a redirection to something better. From therapy breakthroughs to workplace insights and family resilience, this heartfelt conversation offers honest strategies, practical takeaways, and a reminder that rejection does not define your worth; it refines your path.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) - Reframing rejection as redirection

(06:00) - College application rejections and self-worth

(07:30) - Generational differences in handling rejection

(09:00) - Therapy, support systems, and coping tools

(13:00) - The employer’s side of rejection

(17:00) - Identifying feelings and journaling

(19:00) - Replacing negativity with gratitude

(22:00) - The power of open conversations

(25:30) - Social media, comparison, and resiliency

Mentions:

I Saw My Rejection as a Personal Failure: https://opmed.doximity.com/articles/i-saw-my-rejection-as-a-personal-failure

Key Topics Discussed:

Three Takes, Ishana Nigam, Minali Nigam, Mona Nigam, generational advice, overcoming professional rejection, emotional resilience strategies, career setbacks and growth, generational views on rejection, mental health after rejection

More of Three Takes:

Email us at connect@threetakes.com

Start a conversation at https://threetakes.com/

DM us on Instagram (@three.takes) at https://www.instagram.com/three.takes/ 

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Show artwork for Three Takes: 3 Women, 3 Generations, 1 Family Unpacking the Questions We All Ask

About the Podcast

Three Takes: 3 Women, 3 Generations, 1 Family Unpacking the Questions We All Ask
A Gen X mom and her Millennial & Gen Z daughters share real conversations on career, wellness, family, and growth
Welcome to Three Takes, a multi-generational podcast hosted by Mona and her daughters, Minali and Ishana, representing Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z perspectives. Together, they explore the intersection of career, wellness, and family life, providing authentic conversations and valuable insights to empower women in their work, life, and relationships.
Each episode dives into a thought-provoking question, as they share their unique 'takes' on a diverse range of topics, from navigating professional challenges to fostering personal growth and maintaining healthy relationships. More than just a podcast, Three Takes is a shared space for us to evolve together as a growing community, inviting listeners to reflect and connect.