Launch: Facing rejection or criticism
Launch: Facing rejection or criticism [∞]
Launch: Facing Rejection or Criticism (10-15 minutes)
Objective:
Help learners develop resilience and perspective when facing rejection or criticism, encouraging them to see these experiences as opportunities for growth.
Preparation (Before the Launch):
- Media Resource: Choose a short video clip (1-3 minutes) that showcases someone overcoming rejection or handling criticism constructively. Example: Michael Jordan “Failure Commercial” (Nike)—Jordan reflects on the failures and rejections that shaped his success. (If not available, you can summarize the concept aloud.)
- Arrange seating for a Socratic discussion.
Launch Outline
1. Opening (2 minutes)
- Play the selected media clip. [1]
- If using the Michael Jordan example, say:
“Michael Jordan is one of the greatest basketball players of all time. But did you know he was cut from his high school basketball team? Instead of giving up, he used that rejection to work harder and become better. Let’s talk about how we can face rejection and criticism in our own lives.”
2. Introduction to the Topic (2 minutes)
Share this brief insight:“Rejection and criticism can hurt. But they’re also opportunities to learn and grow. How we choose to respond to them can make all the difference. Today, we’ll explore how to turn these challenges into stepping stones for success.”
3. A/B Socratic Questions (5-7 minutes)
Pose these A/B questions and encourage learners to discuss their answers. Emphasize that there are no right or wrong responses, just opportunities to explore perspectives.
- Rejection’s Role in Growth:
- Option A: Rejection means I’m not good enough.
- Option B: Rejection is a sign I need to try a new approach or keep improving.
“Which mindset do you think helps someone grow, and why?”
- Criticism’s Impact:
- Option A: Criticism is meant to tear you down.
- Option B: Criticism can help you see things you might have missed.
“How do you decide if criticism is helpful or just noise?”
- Response to Setbacks:
- Option A: When I face rejection, I should step back and protect myself from trying again.
- Option B: When I face rejection, I should step forward and try again, even if it’s hard.
“Which choice builds more resilience, and why?”
- Value in Effort vs. Outcome:
- Option A: Success is about winning and being accepted.
- Option B: Success is about growing, even if I’m rejected.
“What does success mean to you?”
4. Reflection and Takeaway (3-5 minutes)
- Reflection Prompt: Ask learners to quietly reflect on this question for 1-2 minutes:
“Think about a time you were rejected or criticized. How did you respond? If you could go back, would you do anything differently?”
- Group Share: Invite 2-3 learners to share their reflections or insights.
- Encourage them to connect their answers to the A/B questions discussed.
- End with a positive challenge:
“Rejection and criticism can feel tough, but they don’t define you. This week, when you face a challenge, try to ask yourself: ‘What can I learn from this?’ You might be surprised by how much stronger you become.”
Post-Launch Extension
- Provide a journaling prompt for deeper reflection:
“Write about someone who faced rejection or criticism and still succeeded. What can you learn from their story? How could it inspire your own?”
This launch encourages learners to see rejection and criticism as part of the journey toward growth and resilience.
