A single rejection from a program, publisher, or investor is just one person's opinion, not a definitive judgment of your work's value. True validation comes from the broader market, which is a more reliable judge of potential and should be your ultimate focus.
The impulse to change your authentic self to gain acceptance is a mistake. Your unique perspective is your greatest asset. Altering it to fit a perceived mold for a gatekeeper eliminates the very thing that makes your work valuable and distinct in the first place.
Instead of seeking validation from traditional gatekeepers like writing programs or publishers, share your work directly with the public on social media. This allows the market—your actual potential audience—to decide its value, providing more immediate and meaningful feedback.