Sometimes we learn the hard way. You put all your energy into a project, go all the way to the end, only to discover that it’s not going to happen.

You’re disappointed in the outcome, but ready to get back in the saddle and try again.

That reflects great resilience. You have an end in mind and you’re not going to stop until you get there.

But, if the same thing happens again, you’re likely to get discouraged.

After a setback, it’s important to review what happened, evaluate your process, and observe what you learned from the experience.

+ What did you do that you’d definitely do again?

+ What assumptions did you miss?

+ What assumptions did you make that were entirely false?

+ What did you learn from your own behavior/reactions?

+ What would you do differently?

Upon going through such a review you’ll be substantially less likely to make the same mistakes the next time around.

By seeing things that you didn’t notice the first time around, you will not only avoid the same mistakes, you will be more thoroughly prepared.

This involves a combination of critical thinking and thoughtful self-reflection. Both will contribute to a fair analysis and will inform how you go about the project the next time around.