Dealing with Academic Disappointments

We’ve all experienced disappointment in some way or another over the years. Some disappointments that I found really hard to get over were academic disappointments. You know when you wanted that A and you end up barely passing the test. The blow to your confidence is realllll. Well, just recently I had to deal with a serious blow and I’m still recovering from the gut punch.

While I’m still getting over the hump, know that I can relate to you when it comes to experiencing disappointments. I was traumatized and to be honest everything still repeats in my mind every now and again but here are some tips that I have been using to get over the disappointments. While this is about academic disappointments, these tips can apply to any area of your life where you’re struggling with disappointments.

1. Feel your emotions- Have you ever been trying not to cry then when someone asks you about it all the tears start to fall? I can remember the day I found out that I didn’t get the grade I wanted. I was asked a question and before I could even get the words out, the tears flew uncontrollably. I was so disappointed in myself. I cried and cried and cried some more. While this was a difficult time for me I allowed myself to feel my emotions. Whatever disappointment you may currently be going through, know that your emotions are valid. You’re entitled to not be happy about the situation. Cry if you have to. Do whatever you need to do but make sure you get your emotions out.
2. Establish a game plan: So the disappointment has already happened, now what? Do not drown yourself into a sea of depression. What can you do to change the situation? How can things get better the next time? Maybe there are some habits that you need to change. Maybe you need to manage your time better or limit distractions. Whatever it is you need to do, ensure that you do it so that you don’t have to deal with being disappointed a second time.
3. Talk to someone: It’s important to articulate your feelings to someone. Get it off your chest. Talk to a friend. Let them know how you feel. They may even offer some helpful advice. If the disappointment is serious consider speaking to a professional. You would be surprised who would be there for you if only you were to reach out. Also, if you know anyone who may be going through a difficult time right now, reach out to them. Your text/call may mean more to them than you would ever know.
4. Know that things will work out: “Even when things aren’t going good God is still good.” That quote strikes me every time I see it. Even though things may not be going your way right now, know that God is good and He is working everything out for your good so trust Him. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us that the plans God has for us are to prosper us, to give us a hope and a future. Your future is bright and things will get better!

I hope you found these tips useful. We all experience disappointments but it’s how we deal with them that truly matters.

What was your favorite tip?

Let me know in the comments!