3 things to do when you’re feeling frustrated

We’ve all been there. We make plans, think we’ve covered all the steps and then… Oops! The unexpected happens and the plan is not only off track, but heading in the completely wrong direction. Now we’re left feeling frustrated, overwhelmed and ready to hide under the covers.

As tempting as giving up and hibernating may be, there’s a reason we started the journey towards the achievement of this goal in the first place. If that reason still exists, quitting isn’t an option. Here are 3 things to shake off the frustration, refocus, and get back on track.

1. Identify the cause of your frustration

   Clarity is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. It’s important to be honest about what is really frustrating us. The fact that you missed a deadline is frustrating. The question to ask yourself is why you missed the deadline. Is it because you didn’t ask for help, or maybe you waited too long to ask for the help you need. Whatever the reason is, it’s important to be clear on what went wrong, so that you can truly learn from the experience and move forward in a productive way.

2. Ask yourself what you have control over

   Did you miss the deadline because you said yes to too many things that you couldn’t make time for the stuff you really needed to do? This is something that you have control over. Learn from the experience so that you know what to do next time you’re at risk of putting yourself in the same position.If you missed the deadline because there was a family emergency, then you have to find a way to forgive yourself and move on because you never could have planned for something like that. Beating ourselves up about things that are outside of our control doesn’t make sense. This just leaves us feeling powerless and defeated, not exactly inspiring emotions!

3. Create a plan and take action

   So the plan didn’t work out the first time. You’ve learned from the experience and now you can create a new plan, keeping in mind that the obstacles you encountered to first time could make another appearance. Not only could you be confronted by the same challenges, but you could very well experience new ones too! Ask yourself what you will do differently this time and what you can do to mentally prepare yourself for any set-backs so that you’re able to persist no matter what!

Feelings of frustration can mess with your motivation and focus. Don’t allow these emotions to consume you. Acknowledge their presence and then find a way to work through them. None of us are immune to moments of feeling completely overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. The key is to find a way to work through those feelings and get back on track to creating the life you want! ♥