Disappointment can own you forever, or change you completely—for the better. The choice is yours.
Have you ever gone into something will all of your heart and soul and come up empty-handed? There’s nothing more irritating in the human experience than disappointment, especially, either for reasons beyond your control or, perhaps worse, something you caused that could have been avoided.
Next time you’re grovelling in the pit of despair, don’t forget how integral—albeit frustrating—a part of life disappointment is. Understand these four simple truths and you’re well on your way to dealing with life that little bit better….
TRUTH 1: DISAPPOINTMENT HAPPENS TO EVERYONE
This isn’t a foreign concept is it? It started when you were a child. How many times as kids did we have to face that shattering realisation that something we really wanted wasn’t going to be…
Why then does disappointment in adulthood come as such a shock?
No matter where you are on the ladder of life, we’re all vulnerable to disappointment and change. So breathe and put things in perspective – or as the saying goes “Keep Calm and Carry on”
TRUTH 2: DISAPPOINTMENT SHAPES CHARACTER
Adversity and learning to deal with disappointment in a mature way can lead to insight and wisdom. It can also be your chance to lead by example. You alone have the chance to shine in moments of misfortune. It’s not always easy, but sometimes it’s the only choice you have.
TRUTH 3: DISAPPOINTMENT BRINGS OUT YOUR LEADERSHIP SKILLS
Disappointment instils leadership skills to help others in the same position later down the road. You might know how this feels or, if you haven’t personally experienced the sting of defeat, you can easily imagine what it feels like. Why not help someone in that situation? Find the bright spots in your situation and through helping others realise that your disappointment wasn’t a waste of time.
TRUTH 4: DISAPPOINTMENT INSTILLS HUMILITY
Overconfidence and cockiness happen in every pursuit. Nobody should be on a pedestal and from that perspective, disappointment can be humbling. Disappointment brings people down a few notches. It wipes the slate clean and reminds us that we’re all on a level playing field and that we need to treat others with respect and compassion.
A humble attitude, empathy for others and ceaseless modesty are all long-lasting consequences of disappointment. The humility learned through unfortunate experiences can be healing, motivating and inspirational.
IT’S YOUR CHOICE!
Whatever you’re going through right now, find the lesson, teach others and keep your head about you. Perspective, especially when it comes to overcoming unexpected circumstances, is everything! Pay it forward with a humble heart and you’ll find that wisdom always trumps the disappointing times
You Can Do This!
Steve