Overcoming Rejection: Utilizing Stoicism and (PMA) Mindset

Rejection: Embracing Stoicism and PMA to Unleash Your Strong Mindset

A South American tree thrives in Os, on the western coast of Norway, despite the harsh weather in the Scandinavian country.

Imagine standing at the edge of a vast canyon, with your dreams shimmering vividly across the divide—almost within reach, yet seemingly unattainable. Rejection can feel like a gust of wind pushing you back, challenging your resilience and spirit. But what if Rejection is your most outstanding teacher, not your enemy, shaping you for unparalleled greatness?

Consider Thomas A. Edison, who was sent home by the school board due to his neurodivergence, which today might be recognized as autism, Asperger’s, dyslexia, or ADHD, among other mental high cognitive – this lack of the school board to understand neurodivergence. Albert Einstein faced harsh criticism in his youth, with teachers proclaiming he would amount to nothing, deeming him hopelessly unteachable. Nikola Tesla, whose revolutionary visions electrified the world, was often ridiculed by peers for his groundbreaking ideas. Yet, each instance of Rejection honed their resolve and ignited their passion, propelling them toward remarkable greatness.

Note: Today, there is still a lack of knowledge and wisdom about neuroscience in schools, workplaces, governments, and other institutions, as well as among the population globally. – PMA Science of Psychology

Jay potted outside the Sansedjord Library: a captivating glimpse of the “PMA Science of Psychology” book!

Enter Jay Pacheco, a modern embodiment of turning Rejection into redirection. Jay first envisioned an innovative “Think and Grow Rich” academy in collaboration with the Napoleon Hill Foundation to complement Norway’s skeptical, less friendly, and less emotional culture. After numerous rejections from the CEO, Jay rethought and, with a broader and more powerful vision, began crafting and building the PMA (Positive Mental Attitude) Science University, merging psychological insight, Stoic wisdom, and mental resilience. Although the university is still in its early stages and faces challenges from institutions in Oslo, Stavanger, Tromsø, and beyond, Jay embraces these rejections, allowing them to fuel his quest for deeper understanding. Despite setbacks from workplaces, governmental organizations, and influential figures like Ryan Holiday, Tony Robbins, and Peter Stordalen, Jay continuously transforms every obstacle into inspiration, drawing motivation from the stories of Stoics, Epictetus, Einstein, Rumi, Steve Jobs, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Thomas Edison.

Furthermore, Inspired by Marcus Aurelius’ wisdom, “The impediment to action advances action, what stands in the way becomes the way,” Jay embraces Rejection as a guiding force toward a more prosperous and authentic path, redirecting him toward what is truly enjoyable and meaningful. Rather than succumbing to disappointment, he exemplified resilience by approaching his workplace in mental health with the idea of creating courses or a team that combined their expertise with his background in stoicism, psychology, and other tools. After facing Rejection, Jay transformed his experiences into the impactful book, “PMA Science of Psychology,” which lays the groundwork for a vision initially dismissed. He researched neurodiversity and the “normal population,” utilizing and integrating diagnostic tools such as ICD-10, 11, DSM-5, TR, Emotions Revealed (FACS), Genetics, Cycles, PMA, Stoicism, and Psychology—making it a unique offering available on Amazon, Apple Books, Kobo Books, and in Sandefjord and Tønsberg libraries in Norway.

Think of Rejection as a sculptor’s chisel. Initially, each strike appears to diminish the marble, yet with precision, something extraordinary emerges—a masterpiece beneath the surface. In the same way, rejection shapes and refines us, revealing our true strength and purpose.

The Bible beautifully captures this: “He takes away every branch in me not bearing fruit, and he cleans every one bearing fruit, so that it may bear more fruit.” (John 15:2). Rejection prunes our lives, creating space for growth and unexpected opportunities.

Rumi further illuminates this: “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” Each Rejection opens us to deeper awareness, new possibilities, and greater strength. Rather than seeing Rejection as a scar, embrace it as a badge of courage—an undeniable sign that you’re truly living, growing, and evolving.

How can you turn Rejection into strength using Stoicism and PMA?

1. Accept Honestly: Acknowledge rejection openly. Acceptance empowers adjustment.

 

2. Act Courageously: Embrace the Stoic belief that obstacles are opportunities. Turn rejection into steps toward success.

 

3. Cultivate Gratitude: PMA encourages seeing setbacks as lessons. Gratitude shifts despair to empowerment.

 

4. Persist Passionately: Follow Jay Pacheco’s example: rejection spurred him to write his powerful book and lay the groundwork for his visionary university.

Imagine the oyster patiently transforming an irritant into a priceless pearl. What setbacks in your life could turn into your pearls?

Remember, Rejection doesn’t define your worth—it redirects your path toward purpose. Today’s Rejection can ignite tomorrow’s destiny.

Epictetus wisely stated, “It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters.” Your reactions shape your narrative. Choose responses filled with courage, strength, and unwavering optimism.

Your life is your masterpiece—crafted one Rejection at a time. Embrace Rejection and allow it to mold you into greatness.

Written by the PMA Science University Team and Jay Pacheco’s insights.