Probably not a popular opinion, but I can't help but wonder if getting blanket rejections year after year is a sign that one should pursue a different line of work. Sure, you can apply and re-apply, maybe get into a middling program, but if even those who get into a top program on their first try are going to struggle to find tenure track jobs (and most probably won't), it doesn't seem logical to waste 6, 7, 8 years that could really advance a non-academic career chasing a degree that most likely won't lead anywhere.