Disappointment at work is inevitable, but how you respond can shape your growth and future opportunities. To avoid falling into unproductive mindsets (think “I deserved this,” “I’ll never succeed,” or “How could they choose someone else?”), take control of your next move with these six steps.
Manage your emotions. Acknowledge your feelings without letting them define you. Labeling emotions helps you understand them and choose a constructive response. Speaking with trusted confidants or journaling can help you process what happened.
Reassess your expectations. Reflect on whether your assumptions were realistic. Consider what decision-makers were looking for and how well you aligned yourself with their needs. Use these insights to refine your approach next time.
Allow for recovery. Take time to rest and recharge. Reconnect with energizing routines and activities outside work. Recovery isn’t indulgent—it’s strategic.
Draw out learning. Seek feedback from decision-makers and peers. Ask what you did well, what was missing, and how you can grow. Even unclear answers can inform your next steps.
Reboot your confidence. Revisit past wins and take small, confidence-building actions. Progress starts with momentum.
Move forward. Reconnect with allies, take initiative, and show you’re future-focused. If alignment is no longer possible, consider new opportunities that fit better with what you’re looking for or have to offer. |
