Disappointment

Disappointment is an interesting state.  If you do not move through it quickly and steadily, you will only get into serious emotional states like sadness, anger and desperation.  When you make decisions you want to come from a more loving space.  Letting go of the old can make room for the new.  Sometimes we could not even have imagined the good in new until it arrives.  Most times we can not plan it completely.

I am grateful to be disappointment free.  I can share with you why.  Disappointment is about feelings of missed opportunity and sadness/displeasure caused by the non-fulfillment of one's hopes or expectations.  I have learned to let go of expectation and instead I set intentions and live out my high standards and values.  I also have let go of the strong belief that I have absolute control.  The only thing that I have control over are my decisions moment to moment.  I do not take the power over anyone approach and hope my influence and expertise can move people to make the best decisions.

Acceptance is what we must work on to move through disappointment.  It is hard to look at the bigger picture when feelings of a small defeat dominate.  How do you get back up after a fall?  How do you look at all the elements when you are blinded by the smallest detail? Brene Brown's latest book,  Rising Strong addresses such issues.  She introduces a three step process that can help you get up when you fall.

Here are some ways you can strength acceptance in the mist of disappointment:

Let it out:  One way to avoid getting caught up in only emotion is to get it out physically.  Cry, yell, do what you need to do to let it all out.  Emotions can trigger reactions that are more about the issue at hand.  Physical activity can move emotions out of the body.  Be sure to practice compassion and give yourself space and time to confront the larger issue.

Gratitude: Counting your blessings can bring in a positive side to situations.  How can you make room for the new and let go of the old?  What can you appreciate about the situation?

Take a time out:  Taking a step back, can allow you to be more honest with yourself and clearly see the bigger picture.  Use the situation as a learning tool.  What can you learn from what has happened? What deeper understanding do you have of yourself, now?