Being unique is something that a lot of people are afraid to show. They think that they’ll be subjects for criticisms, jokes, and ridicule. Sadly, this is what most of us go through in life. At some point in our lives, we get to experience being shunned away from the focus by society, just because we’re different.
The saying “People fear what they don’t understand” is a sad reality that most of us have to accept. Most individuals will either dislike or hate something if they don’t fully understand a concept or belief. They will automatically label it as wrong, harmful, outlandish, and weird.
However, there are a lot of individuals that brave the waters. They often brace for the consequences that come with showing the world of their ideas and uniqueness. To inspire those people who are in hiding, here are some famous icons who, against all the odds, became a force in their field.
Marilyn Monroe
Who would’ve known that one of the most famous icons both in Hollywood and fashion would end up getting rejected in the beginning? That was what exactly happened to Marilyn Monroe as she was starting. As a child, Marilyn was abused and even developed a speech impediment.
As she grew up, she moved from home to home due to financial struggles. At the tender age of 16, she married 21-year-old James Dougherty, a factory worker. Her marriage to James was “boring.” She eventually found work in a factory but ultimately ended up quitting.
She went to several modeling agencies in defiance with her husband’s decision. As she went to these agencies, many rejected her, often saying that she’d be better off working as a secretary. Things finally went in favor of her as Blue Book Model Agency signed her. Marilyn eventually worked her way up, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Cardi B
When it comes to bouncy rap beats and dazzling music, Cardi Bj is one of the most recognizable icons. Aside from being a well-known artist, the 27-year-old celebrity from The Bronx is also enjoying her status as one of the most recognizable fashion icons. She may be living the life now, but Cardi also had her own share of rejections.
Most notably, Cardi was interviewed and revealed that a lot of fashion brands didn’t want to work with her. Due to her persistence, Cardi is one of Reebok’s leading endorsers. She’s also released her own fashion line, with collaboration from Fashion Nova. This persistence just goes to show that rejection isn’t always the end of the story.
Stefani Germanotta
Famously known for her lyrics and her wild sense of fashion, Stefani, a.k.a. Lady Gaga wasn’t always doing good with her career. A significant record label rejected Lady Gaga. Initially, the company accepted her. Due to “creative differences” with some people within the label, Lady Gaga got fired months later.
After many years of perseverance and hard work, Lady Gaga is now a multi-awarded singer and songwriter and continues to make music while sporting unique and outlandish outfits to date.
The Beatles
Composed of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, this legendary band was also a victim of rejection during their audition at Decca Records. Often viewed by many as the biggest mistake in music history, Decca rejected the Fab Four and instead signed Brian Poole and the Tremeloes.
The rest was music history as The Beatles rose to international fame, surpassing other bands in the process. Due to this blunder, the man who initially rejected them, Dick Rowe will forever bear the moniker of “The Man who turned down The Beatles.”
Jay-Z
Professionally known as Jay-Z, Shawn Corey Carter is a rapper and an American businessman. He sold more than 75 million singles and 50 million albums worldwide and received 21 Grammy Awards because of his excellent music. Jay-Z is one of the most successful artists, and his albums became sales and chart-toppers and held a record in Billboard 200.
Additionally, Jay-Z is the founder of Roc Nation Sports and the creator of entertainment Roc Nation, which manages Rihanna and Kanye West, to name a few. But during his early days, trying to start his career led him to different rejection. Jay-Z couldn’t get signed by a record label. But despite the odds, Jay-Z didn’t give up on his journey and leads him to where he is.
Anna Wintour
Before being the iconic editor-in-chief of Vogue, Anna Wintour worked as a junior fashion editor at Harper’s Bazaar. Tony Mazzola, the editor of the publication, decided to fire Anna for being too edgy. She was only working there for nine months.
This adverse event in Anna’s life didn’t stop her from reaching her dreams. She still worked hard, eventually landing on the spot as the editor-in-chief of Vogue. A magazine which focuses on the latest fashion trends and looks. Since being the editor-in-chief of such a famous icon, the name “Vogue” is a force to reckon in fashion publications.
Michael Jordan
Even before owning his iconic “Jordan” brand, Michael Jordan was already rejected for their high school basketball team. Coaches deemed that “His Airness” was too short for the team. Due to that rejection, Michael worked hard, improving his playing skills. As he went to college, a lot made offers to him, and he eventually landed with the University of North Carolina.
Jordan was known in the college scene as a prolific and athletic scorer. His reputation significantly improved his chances of being drafted in the most awaited NBA draft. To his surprise, he wasn’t drafted number one. He landed with the Chicago Bulls as the third pick.
Even if a lot of people know Jordan as the G.O.A.T. of the NBA, he had to work hard to win championships. He had to face a lot of defeats from powerhouse teams such as the Detroit Pistons, Boston Celtics, and Los Angeles Lakers.
Eventually, the Chicago Bulls and Michael Jordan won 6 NBA championships. Today, Michael Jordan is the founder of the Jordan brand, which produces men’s wear, gear, and an extremely famous shoe line.
Takeaway
In our life, we may face difficulties and even “rejection” in our journey towards success. Just like these people mentioned above, at some point in their life, they face rejection. However, regardless of what happens, it only goes to show that a person is determined enough and won’t give up on his or her dreams. Someday, somehow time will come that they will meet their “success.”
Those who are hiding in fear of being rejected, need to know that you can’t please everyone. Even if you’re a girl wearing watches from a guy’s skeleton watch brands, or if you’re a guy and you like something effeminate, don’t worry. As long as you’re not hurting anyone, don’t be afraid of rejection.