Have you ever been in a game—or even watched one—when there was a toss-up? One side selected tails and other was left with heads. The official threw up the coin. There was anticipation over what side the coin would land on. As it spun through the air, the coin was on its edge, the suspense mounting. What will it be?
Regardless of what side it landed on, we would all need to hear the results. We would have to be ready to start the game. But what if the results were not what we wanted?
Has this happened to you before? Maybe the result you were waiting for wasn't a coin toss. It could be a job that you applied for, a team that you are eagerly waiting to be invited to participate in, or a fledgling relationship seeking reciprocation, you have put yourself out there and you’re waiting to hear back.
Regardless of what the toss-up is about, you will have to be able to hear the results. You will need to find a way to move on; but how? You must have a strategy to proceed if things do or do not go as you desired or expected.
Listen to the results. Practice mindfulness. What's going on now? Witness how you are feeling without judgment. Recognize your emotions.
Be aware of the story (stories) you tell yourself. Where did this story come from? Was the story true then, and is it right now? Can this story be applied to your current situation, or do you need to adapt your narrative? Decide what information you will tell yourself about the situation with a lens of truth towards yourself and others.
Choose your attitude and shift if needed. Learn from what took place, if you can. If there are some great takeaways, take them and use them now and in the future.
Practice good sportsmanship. Be ready to play or move on regardless of the side it lands on. Develop resilience. Be agile. Now, play to the best of your abilities.
Remember, you can use this to fuel your future. This can help you to get out of your comfort zone. This can help you to practice and build a new skill or develop your strengths.
