Life throws curveballs, from the heart-wrenching to the mildly uncomfortable. These reality hardships can be anything—a loss, a failure, or a moment of self-doubt. They shake us, but they also offer growth. The key is in how we respond:
According to Elisabeth Kübler-Ross model, first, we have to go through the ‘five stages of grief’ as denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance:
A. Denial: Initially, we might find ourselves unable to accept what's happened. It's like our mind's way of giving us a momentary shield against the shock. You might catch yourself avoiding conversations about it, or acting as if everything is just fine, all while feeling somewhat disconnected from reality.
B. Bargaining: Then, we might find ourselves trying to negotiate our way out of the pain. It's like we're trying to strike a deal with the universe, hoping for a different outcome. This stage is filled with "if only" thoughts, wishing things could have gone differently.
C. Anger: As the reality starts to seep in, it's natural to feel angry. This isn't just about being mad at someone or something; it's a deep-seated frustration with the situation itself. You might also feel a sense of unfairness or betrayal by life's circumstances.
D. Depression: Contrary to its name, this isn't clinical depression but a profound sadness and mourning for what's been lost. It's a period of reflection, where fear, regret, and uncertainty might visit, allowing us to fully grasp the depth of our feelings.
E. Acceptance: This final stage is about finding peace with the situation. It doesn't mean the pain has disappeared or that we're okay with what happened, but there's a certain level of acknowledgment that allows us to move forward.