Our first reaction when things don’t go our way is to push back and try to set things back on course. We try to fix it. That’s a productive reaction if change is possible, but many times a setback simply is what it is. There’s nothing you can do to change the outcome or make things better.
So our next reaction is to fall into the catastrophic thinking loop, believing the setback or disappointment is far worse than it really is.
By practicing strategic acceptance, both about the negative situation and your reaction to it, you can find peace in moving forward in spite of the unexpected event.
As you take a few mindful moments to acknowledge your feelings, you clear the way for finding solutions, moving in a new direction, or simply letting go.