As we’ve seen this past month, getting out of the World Cup group stages involves elements of luck, timing and resilience - the ultimate winners, Argentina, unexpectedly lost their first game against Saudi Arabia. And in the teaching profession, the process of securing that elusive promotion, job or next opportunity can be very similar.
Most teachers will, at some point, experience pangs of regret when they aspire for promotion or some other type of opportunity, only to miss a clear goalscoring chance. The challenge is to keep going after such a setback.
Disappointments are an inevitable part of life, but they needn’t discourage you. Holding on to the negativity of rejections may even stop you from embracing future opportunities.
Having a resilient mindset is a major asset, then - maintaining a constructive approach even when disappointment weighs heavily.
Simply knowing this is not enough, however; to become resilient takes conscious effort, practice and patience. The key to this is accepting that success and disappointment go hand in hand. You cannot have one without risking the other.
Disappointment provides the perfect opportunity to build resilience - and here is how to do it.
1. Celebrate the wins but give yourself time to mourn the losses
Disappointment is part and parcel of a life well lived. Experiencing it confirms you were brave; you tried. It is OK to feel sorrow. Depending on the level of disappointment, take a day, or a weekend, but do not self-indulge beyond a few days. If you are having difficulty moving on, don’t be afraid to ask for help from family, friends or your GP if you find you are really struggling.
2. We remember the goals we failed to save more than those we successfully scored
Acknowledge negativity bias. Our brains are hard-wired to ensure that we avoid dangerous situations. The reality of this means that we naturally hold on to negative experiences more than positive ones. After a career knockback, simply being aware of negativity bias can help you to reframe, fact check and channel the disappointment into something that can help you learn.
3. Carry out a post-match analysis by seeking out constructive feedback
Replaying an interview in your own head is entirely unproductive and will feed your negativity bias. Being turned down for your dream job is never pleasant, but be sure to find out the facts before you start to rip up your CV or shy away from similar opportunities in the future.
Resilient people are more likely to use support and seek out advice from others. If possible, ask for feedback from your interviewer - this is going to be especially important if you are a probationer or less experienced in interviews. Use the feedback to plan for future opportunities.
4. Rewind the game to reflect on what might have gone better
The General Teaching Council for Scotland Professional Standards require all practitioners in Scotland to engage in reflective practice as part of career-long professional learning. The reality is that this is a lot harder than it sounds, especially where emotion is involved. Consider the role a mentor could play in this process, connect with colleagues and carve out a pathway to help you improve.
5. A transfer to another team may not be necessary to boost your career
Stay open to opportunities to grow your skills and experiences, and accept that not all progression is linear. Professional development may take the form of a promotion or new role, but it is equally valid to seek opportunities outside your professional remit. Volunteering, leadership within the curriculum and action research are all career-enhancing pursuits.
And then get ready, like the Tartan Army, to try again, build up hope - and truly believe that the next tournament will be yours to win.
Kirsten Colquhoun is a teacher, researcher, MEd graduate and eSafety coordinator in Scotland. She tweets @kirstcolquhoun
