People let you down - that's part of life! Be it a friend who cancels plans at the last minute, a colleague who involves you in uncomfortable situations or someone who breaks their promises. Although you cannot control the actions of others, you can choose how to react. Here are some simple ways to help you take care of yourself after a disappointment:
Don't deny your emotions?
It is normal to feel hurt, angry or sad when you are let down. Accept these feelings without denying them and reflect on them. Ask yourself if your reaction stems from a present frustration or from past experiences.
Acknowledge your unmet needs
Reflect on why you feel this way and what expectations have not been met. Do you need more support, understanding or attention? Distinguishing between current frustration and past needs can help you avoid confusing the two.
Find ways to get rid of negative feelings
Instead of wallowing in negative feelings, find simple ways to take care of yourself. You can go out alone, spend time with someone else, or do something that calms you down.
Decide if you should talk
Think about whether it is worth discussing your feelings with the person who disappointed you. Will he/she listen and understand you? If so, then have the conversation without hasty and unnecessary reactions.
Review your expectations
Ask yourself if your expectations of others are realistic. Sometimes, people are unable to give you what you ask for because of their circumstances.
Do not tolerate repetitive behavior
If someone has a history of repeated disappointments, consider whether setting boundaries is necessary. Determine what you will no longer tolerate and save yourself from constant disappointment.
When others let you down it's important to be supportive of yourself by not letting their behavior affect you more than it should.
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