Mental health expert: How to cope with disappointment and move forward in the face of challenges
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 07 Mar 2025
Disappointment is an inevitable part of life, but its effects can run deep, influencing our emotions, mental health and even our physical wellbeing. Whether it stems from personal relationships, career setbacks or unmet expectations, disappointment can trigger a range of responses that affect our overall wellbeing.
"While disappointment can have profound effects, it also presents an opportunity for growth. By acknowledging feelings, reframing experiences and seeking support, individuals can build resilience and move forward stronger than before," Elizabeth Jane said.
"The important thing is to understand how to deal with it and move forward to minimise the impact on your health, wellbeing and relationships. For many this is easier said than done. Given how many of us experience disappointment, very few people really know how to manage it."
Jane is a respected wellbeing and mindfulness keynote speaker, relationships' coach and mentor, celebrated artist and author of Amazon best-seller 'Free and First - Unlocking Your Ultimate Life'.
Jane experienced a sudden and traumatic divorce after 25 years of marriage and during her difficult and life changing journey of rebuilding her life and finding her new path, she journalled the process translating her insights and learnings into a highly sought-after self-help book.
Jane now speaks all over the world and shares her insights and tools on how to survive and overcome difficult and challenging life experiences as well as how to find joy, and in the process, rediscover yourself.
Jane shares practical strategies to survive, overcome and grow from life's unexpected setbacks. Here are her top tips on how to deal with disappointment.
Acknowledge your feelings
"Disappointment is natural and suppressing emotions can make the experience even harder. Allow yourself to feel the pain, frustration or sadness. Journaling or talking to a trusted friend can help process these emotions," Jane said.
Reframe the situation
"Instead of focusing on what went wrong, ask yourself, what can I learn from this. Often setbacks pave the way for new opportunities and personal growth," Jane said.
Let go of what you can't control
"Disappointment often stems from unmet expectations. Recognising and letting go of what is beyond your control and focusing on what you can change will help you regain your power," Jane said.
Practise self-compassion
"Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Avoid self- blame and negative self-talk and remind yourself that setbacks are part of life's journey," Jane said.
Stay present and mindful
"Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation, can help you stay grounded in the present moment, reducing stress and emotional overwhelm. When we focus on the past, regretting, shaming and blaming, we keep re-living the drama, draining our energy and making ourselves feel worse," Jane said.
Take constructive action
"Once you've processed your emotions, identify small, actionable steps to move forward. Whether it's seeking guidance, setting new goals or trying something new, progress, no matter how small, helps rebuild confidence," Jane said.
Find joy in the little things
"Disappointment can overshadow happiness, but intentionally engaging in activities that bring you joy, whether it's art, nature, music or meaningful conversations, can shift your mindset towards positivity," Jane said.
Find gratitude
"Being grateful for things brings more things to be grateful for into our lives. Gratitude also redirects our attention and helping to dissolve feelings of disappointment," Jane added.
Seek support when needed
"You don't have to navigate disappointment alone. Seeking guidance from a coach, mentor or support group can offer new perspectives and encouragement during difficult times," Jane said.
Jane emphasised that disappointment is not the end, it's often the beginning of something greater.
"Things happen for a reason. It is important to see the possibilities and opportunities that come with setbacks as they are often a much-needed catalyst for positive change and new beginnings," Jane said.
About Elizabeth Jane
Elizabeth Jane is an Australian artist, author and public speaker. She uses a selection of painting media in her art, including acrylic oil and water colour. Digital and canvas versions of her art are available for purchase through her website. Jane's debut book, 'Free and First—Unlocking Your Ultimate Life', was written as part of her healing process following her divorce, which ended a 25- year marriage. Jane aims to develop wellness centres and healing sanctuaries focused on helping people to recover from relationship breakdowns and other life issues.