Disappointment

Disappointment is the feeling of dissatisfaction that follows the failure of expectations or hopes to manifest.  When we are disappointed we tend to focus on the outcome of an event itself and it creates a great deal of psychological stress.  Disappointment is a subjective response which is related to an anticipated reward.

There are many times in our lives when we are disappointed:  a relationship ends, a promotion falls through, a colleague misses a deadline, an addict relapses – the list is endless.

The experience of disappointment may influence subsequent behavior. Individuals will anticipate the potential for disappointment and make decisions that are less likely to lead to the experience of this feeling.  In doing so people take less risk, avoid challenges, and loss the potential of a positive outcome to its fullest extent.

So how can one avoid that?  Maybe this is the answer.  In a 2004 journal article in Psychology Today it recommended handling disappointment through concrete steps including accepting that setbacks are normal, setting realistic goals, planning subsequent moves, thinking about positive role models, seeking support, and tackling tasks by stages rather than focusing on the big picture.  These ideas offer sound advice with minimal risk and the potential for a positive outcome.  It is worth a try!

“Disappointment is a sort of bankruptcy – the bankruptcy of a soul that expends too much in hope and expectation.” ― Eric Hoffer