How I learned to deal with disappointment

Have you ever really wanted something and been absolutely gutted when you didn't get it?

You're not alone. Everyone experiences disappointment at some point in their lives.

Although it's something you can't avoid, I've learned a few strategies to help lessen the blow that can help you, too!

Whenever I feel particularly disappointed, I remember the Parable of the Chinese Farmer.

Each day, something happens where his neighbors declare he's had such good luck or such bad fortune. His reply is always maybe yes, maybe no.

When his horse runs away, instead of being disappointed, he waits. The next day, his horse returns with seven more.

It's human nature to label things that happen to you as good or bad, but these experiences often trigger unexpected series of events that have unforeseen outcomes.

When I was passed up for my dream job in college and had to move across campus, away from all my friends to take a backup job, I was devastated.

Looking back, I realize all I needed was a shift in perspective.

Not only did I learn and grow in that job I "didn't want," I also met my husband!

Disappointment is unavoidable, but instead of focusing on how unlucky you are, notice your disappointment (it's totally normal!), then think of ways this might actually be for the better.

Photo by Juan Rumimpunu on Unsplash

Shifting your perspective isn't always easy. So what can you do to help you get there?

Photo by Jan Kahánek on Unsplash

• Try journaling. Take time to reflect on how exactly you feel and why.

• Reflect on your decisions. If there is something you could have done differently, make note of it so you can improve next time.

• Understand your limitations. Not everything is within your control and that's okay! Practice accepting what you can't change.

Try these things to deal with disappointment: