Wildly Rejected- Week Four Update

Week 4 of the 1000 Rejections Challenge brought an unexpected shift—not in results, but in mindset.

This week, Lauren reflects on entering the Montgomery Photography Contest, an event she’s participated in for years. While this year didn’t result in a win, it marked a powerful personal breakthrough. Instead of stress, comparison, and frustration, she found herself relaxed, present, and genuinely cheering on other artists.

In this episode, Lauren shares what it feels like to move from needing validation to embracing the process, how redefining rejection is changing her experience, and why some outcomes still feel like a mystery. She also discusses her decision to count each paid submission as its own rejection—and what that reveals about opportunity, risk, and growth.

With several major grant applications, Ranger Rick article idea, and children's book submitted this week, the challenge continues to push boundaries and expand what feels possible.

If you’ve ever struggled with rejection, comparison, or trying to “figure out what judges want,” this episode is for you.

🎙️ Wildly Unplug is a podcast about reconnecting with nature, creativity, and yourself through storytelling, conservation, and exploration.

👉 Follow along with the full “1000 Rejections” journey and weekly updates on Substack.

And until next time… unplug, get outside, and see what develops. 🌿

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