Opportunities

As I sit here writing this week's post I reflect on the numerous opportunities that have been presented to me over my past 19 and a half years. Some have been good, others bad but they have all involved some level of decision-making.

I was presented with a rather large opportunity a couple of weeks ago and it had playing on my mind ever since I found out about it. I'm not going to discuss the specific details but for some reason or another it didn't work out.

After a disappointing phone call I admit there were a few tears. As I rang Mum and relayed the information to her I was devastated and think she could hear my heart break through the phone.

This was an opportunity that I did not seek for myself and something that would start my career. I hadn't gone looking for it but it somehow seemed exactly what I should be doing. My hard work had finally started to pay off.

I think deep down I knew it was too good too be true. I had realised there would probably be difficulties with the situation and it wouldn't work out, but that didn't stop me from thinking about the possibility of accepting the opportunity. There were so many amazing things that could happen as a result.

I know I am being extremely vague but my point is in dealing with the disappointment.

After wiping my mascara-lined cheeks I had to move on. I couldn't dwell on what might have been but rather accept the fact that it couldn't work and be grateful for the experience in the beginning.

It's not easy to deal with disappointment and pull yourself back up but it's something that we all have to learn to do. In life things don't always work out. I've been extremely lucky and haven't had to deal with a lot of heartbreak but this experience has taught me I am a little tougher that I thought.

For those of you struggling I commend the effort you have put in and know that you will get there and learn more about yourself in the process.

There will be plenty more opportunities to come and I know for whatever reason this simply was not meant to be.

#ashleighdwan #beyondthestory #journalism