How to cope with rejection

1. Rejection in science is a normal part of life and in part reflects the ‘self-correcting’ nature of science. Every scientist suffers!
2. When it happens don’t lash out or over-react! Let the dust settle for a day or two.
3. Having ideas rejected or criticized by your supervisor is better than being knocked down publicly later on. The subsequent refinements could lead to greater success in your work.
4. Having your paper rejected happens to everyone, to good and bad scientists. But you can bounce back with submission to another journal.
5. Console yourself that many theories we now accept and use were initially rejected!
6. Despite the temptation, don’t assume your grant or job application was turned down purely because of some problem in your character.
7. You will survive!