The Most Important Lessons I Learned From Disappointment

Photo Credit: Pixaby

​Spring is the beginning and the end of lots of things.  In Higher Ed it's the end of the spring semester and the beginning of jobs, internships, and fellowships.
For many students this time can represent a lot of success but also a lot of disappointment.

This is the time were many students will hear back from competitive opportunities that did not yield in their favor. This can be very difficult to deal with, especially when it comes at the end of a very challenging application process. 
The process can leave you feel depressed and rejected. And while it may be difficult to accept in the moment, there is life on the other side of this. Below are some of the most important lessons I've learned from disappointment

1. It Wasn't the End
My sister said to me recently, "In times of despair, what's real to anyone is what they're feeling in that moment". Probably the hardest thing for anyone to access when dealing with disappointment, is a realization that, the disappointment is not the end of things, other pathways are possible.

2. Something Better May be Waiting
I can remember feeling devastated when my first attempts at seeking funding to go abroad failed.  I also remember applying to job after job and getting tons of rejections letters. I felt like such a loser.  But for many of the opportunities that missed me, I later found something, that was an even better fit. 

3. I Learned More About Myself
Through many of my disappointments, I gained a greater understanding for areas where I could improve. I also learned more about supporting my own self-care in the process. I learned how to grow from the experience.

4. Persistence is the Price
This may seem self explanatory but it can be the most difficult, especially when you feel you've given your all. It is your tenacity that is being tested. Hard won victories are often the most cherished. Your disappointment today will serve as a badge of honor tomorrow and a testament to others of what's possible when you persist.

Do you know someone dealing with disappointment right now? Forward this post to them. You can also head over to our Facebook page and let us know how you've learned from disappointment.

Know someone who could use this advice? Forward it on to them.

Do you want to know how you or your team could be Directing Your Purpose, contact me.  Don't forget to sign-up for my mailing list. You can also follow me on Facebook Twitter and Instagram.

---