Processing Disappointment
3 months of hard work
Twenty-one firms, three months of preparation, and a powerful 10-month proposal later—we were both honored and thrilled to be named one of the two finalists.
We did not win.
Here’s what I learned: a 'no' didn’t mean the goal was wrong or the effort wasted. It simply meant the outcome wasn’t ours to own. After three months of collaborative work with another inspiring consulting firm, and putting our hearts into crafting a strong 10-month proposal to support transformational work, we were honored to make it as one of the two finalists out of 21 initial submissions. And then—the rejection came. The sting was real. All of the energy, thought, and care we invested felt heavy in that moment. But as I sat with it, I began to realize that the work wasn’t wasted. The process itself had sharpened our clarity, strengthened our partnerships, and proved what we’re capable of creating together. The 'no' didn’t take away from the strength of our proposal or the importance of our vision. It simply meant this particular outcome wasn’t ours to own—and that our 'yes' is still waiting, somewhere else, for the right time.
How to process this without losing momentum?
First, just process the loss.
It’s real and it matters.
Just as many of you are feeling the sting of rejection when interviews stall out, I had to let myself acknowledge and experience
the painful emotions of my own disappointment.
I’m trusting that the space it left open will make room for something better.
Looking back, I can see how many disappointments eventually opened the door to lessons, new directions, or even protection from risks I didn’t yet see. I trust this will be one of those moments.
While I wait for the perspective of my future self, I keep believing—
and I keep going.
If you’re navigating a setback like this, know you’re not alone
