Woman asks for ‘burger refill’ at Burger King as a form of ‘rejection therapy’: ‘That was so cringe’
TikToker Sumeya (@sumi25a) asked for a “burger refill” at Burger King as a form of therapy to desensitize herself to rejection, and her efforts received tremendous support from viewers.
Some believe that the best way to overcome fear is to face it head-on. Sumeya is familiar with this sentiment, evidenced by her decision to practice “rejection therapy,” a concept popularized by author Jia Jiang. The idea is that a person consciously exposes themself to embarrassing or uncomfortable situations to soften negative feelings stemming from rejection.
Recently, Sumeya shared a video where she asked for a “burger refill” at Burger King, and her ability to step out of her comfort zone inspired viewers.
“Today is day 2 of the 100-day rejection,” Sumeya says at the beginning of the clip. She explains that every day for 100 days, she will put herself in uncomfortable situations to “desensitize [herself] from feeling hurt from rejection.” Like many people, Sumeya says she’s not too keen on rejection and associates it with her self-worth.
A TED Talk from Jia Jiang, who developed 100 Days of Rejection Therapy, inspired Sumeya to combat her fear of rejection. Jiang based his exercise on a similar game invented by Canadian entrepreneur Jason Comely, in which an individual exposes themself to rejection on a daily basis to desensitize themself from the negative feelings associated with it.
Trying out ‘rejection therapy’
Sumeya decided to try the method in an effort to become more confident.
“So today, I’m going to go to Burger King and ask for a burger refill, or like a free burger, after I order the first one and see what they say,” Sumeya says.
After finishing her meal, Sumeya approaches the counter and compliments the tasty chicken burger. Smiling sheepishly, she asks if she can get a “burger refill,” similar to how people get drink refills. The Burger King employee at the counter politely rejects her request, explaining that she’d have to purchase another one.
Sumeya quickly thanked the employee before heading out the door. “Oh my God, that was so cringe, but I stayed. I did it,” she tells the camera, laughing as she walks to her car.
“Y’all, my heart rate was through the roof, but that felt good to do. And then they were staring at me, and I finally had the courage to make eye contact. Oh my God, and they were laughing,” Sumeya recalls with a nervous giggle.
Sumeya remains committed to her rejection therapy journey. She’s posted more videos of herself tackling various awkward situations. They include this one where she asks a Costco employee if she could use their intercom to wish customers a “happy Tuesday.” Other daily challenges have included a visit to a local fire station where she asked to slide down the pole, and a trip to Krispy Kreme, where she asked for donuts shaped like the Olympic rings.
Rejection gets a thumbs up from viewers
Viewers took to the comments to express their support and encouragement.
“This is so cool and very helpful. You’re awesome for sharing this journey. I’m inspired, lol,” one user complimented.
“I would have a hard time keeping a straight face if I did this, but this is a sweet challenge. Good luck and have fun,” one TikToker shared.
“I’m proud of you! Keep doing it,” one viewer encouraged.
Like most things in life, when it comes to rejection therapy, practice makes perfect.
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