4 Easy & Simple Ways to Deal with Dissapointment

Unfortunately, disappointment is something true to the human experience. No matter how hard we try, it can not be avoided. Because of this, we need to learn how to manage disappointment. If we do not, we will soon move into discouragement that can quickly develop into misery and anguish. 

As the new year approaches, we are hopeful it will be full of beautiful shared experiences and memories made. However, it would be foolish of us to think that all our expectations would be met. There will be more than enough opportunity to have our hopes dashed. Sounds disheartening we know, but if you think about it, disappointments can lead to new things and greater truth. Here are four ways to deal with disappointment.

1. Acknowledge how you really feel.

Denying how you feel is never the answer. Momentarily it might make you feel a little relief but in the long run denial only pushes the pain down. Eventually you will have to deal with it, even if it takes years to resurface. Writing down how you feel in a journal can not only help you to process it authentically, but also lead you to ask deeper questions about what you have experienced.

Many people do not like to acknowledge pain. We get it, it can feel unbearable. However, taking small steps to being completely honest about what you have been through is not beyond you. 

2. Take one day at a time.

Often disappointment crowds out all the good in our lives. Knowing that all you have to do is get through one day at a time helps disappointment to feel not so overwhelming. In fact, you can take it even slower, one hour at a time if need be.

Being present to what and who is in the moment can help you find the joy and beauty that is still available to you. 

3. Look for the lessons.

We know it sounds corny but looking for the lessons in disappointing situations helps us to realise that the pain is not meaningless. Take out a piece of paper and write ‘what disappointment has shown me’ at the top of the page. Next write a list of all the things your situation has revealed to you about life, others and yourself. This exercise can be both painful and liberating. 

4. Remember that a set back is a set up.

Believing disappointment can elevate us helps to cool the sting of loss. Perceiving rejection as redirection helps us to let go and move on. If you are struggling to believe that life can be better after a disappointment, breathe deep and ponder on the possibility that there are good things for you just up ahead. Worrying and doubting will rob you of energy, instead focus on allowing what is to take you to where you will be next and expect that there is goodness, truth and beauty found there. 

For life affirming words to help you focus on what is good, take a look at our gorgeous 'you got this' word charms.

Featured photo by Artem Kovalev