Frustration as a gem

I have this strong thought to say a few words on frustration today, for some reason. Frustration can be defined (according to the dictionary) as the feeling that one is unable to change a set of circumstances or, affect a person’s behavior. It can also refer to the feeling associated with one’s inability to, halt and or propel the progress of some action or event.

Identify the emotion of frustration: It is not pleasant or welcomed to feel frustrated. But it is part of being human. I remember a time in my life in my late thirties when I did not know that I was frustrated with myself – at where I was in life. Back then, I interpreted all and any unpleasant emotions as anger.

It was a blessing then, after a deep period of soul searching and by the grace of God that I started to recognize that there was more to my emotions than anger. I was able to identify the nuances of my emotions and to distinguish one emotion from another. It was like an emotional light bulb came on in my life! It was only then that I felt free enough to own my emotions and deal with them. It was a welcomed relief to be able to identify what I was feeling.

Moreover, and oddly enough, it was liberating to recognize, frustration from anger, fear from anxiety, despair from grief. Sometimes we feel frustrated with ourselves. But it is a gift just to be able to acknowledge and to identify what we are feeling — so that we can address our concerns, own it and move forward.

“Hope fills the holes of my frustration in my heart.” Emanuel Cleaver

Frustration as a result of dashed expectations. Frustrations may come from expecting the best in people and being disappointed by the results of their actions. “Expectation is the mother of all frustration.” Antonio Banderas

Frustration as a motivator. Frustration can be a motivator to propel us to good works for ourselves, or for others. “You’ve done it before and you can do it now. See the positive possibilities. Redirect the substantial energy of your frustration and turn it into positive, effective, unstoppable determination.” -Ralph Marston

The riches of frustration. Frustration can be a gem that sparkles in the many facets of character. It can give way to the start of something new. It can be the entrance to a new personal path in life.

Frustration can be a way to adapt one’s thinking and to see things through fresh eyes.