Bouncing back from disappointment

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This week’s focus is very personal and relevant to me. Some years ago, I wrote a number of articles for British Athletics on sports psychology…this was the start of my journey working with a group of Kenyan Athletes…talented but with limited opportunity.

Last weekend, one of my athletes flew to the UK for a very high-profile athletics track race…the night of 10k PBs. Expectation was high but sadly the race did not go to plan.

Bouncing back from disappointment, can be challenging, but it’s an essential skill for maintaining resilience and personal growth.

Its ok to feel disappointment and without judgment. It’s natural to feel upset when things don’t go as planned. Sometimes talking to a friend and expressing your emotions will help.
Analyze the situation and reflect on what happened. Identify what was within your control and what wasn’t. Learn from the experience…consider what lessons can be learned. How can this experience help you to grow?

It’s important to reframe your mindset…positive thinking…shift your focus from what went wrong to what can go right in the future. Focus on what you are grateful for, which can help shift your perspective and improve your mood.

Break down goals, into smaller, manageable steps towards your larger goals. This will help you to celebrate success on the journey! Adjust expectations, understand that setbacks are a part of the journey and adjust your expectations accordingly.

Take action, plan your next steps, and develop a clear action plan to move forward. Stay proactive, actively seeking opportunities and solutions rather than dwelling on the past.

Seek support, by talking to others. Share your experience with friends, family, or a mentor who can offer support and advice. If needed, seek help from a counselor or therapist to work through your feelings.
Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep to keep your body and mind strong. Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as meditation, yoga, or maybe just hobbies you enjoy.
Stay persistent and understand that resilience is about continuing to move forward despite setbacks.

Visualize your goals and dreams to keep you motivated and consider reading books or listen to podcasts that inspire and motivate you. Check out our Solution Focused Book…” Keep Calm & Be Solution Focused!

By implementing these strategies, you can build resilience and navigate through disappointments with greater ease and confidence.

“Resilience is the secret ingredient that transforms stumbling blocks into stepping stones.”
Author Unknown