The Next ACTUAL Steps After Disappointment

MedSync
May 19
3 min read

Updated: Jun 2

So…the emotional dust has settled. Let's talk through the next steps after disappointment in surgical training

Use the disappointment to motivate your next move — Getting through the disappointment is hard but there is hope...make a plan

The initial sting of disappointment has started to fade. Now, you can think more clearly. The fires of frustration have calmed. You’ve taken stock of what happened after those application results. If you haven't yet, check out our related post on how to organize yourself after a setback.

Take Stock of Your Progress

Now you've done the work. You’ve:

Identified what was missing from your portfolio.
Reviewed the feedback from your interviewers.
Made a to-do list of actions and portfolio items to prepare for next time.

It's normal for the list to feel long and maybe even overwhelming. So where do you actually start?

1. Find Your Stabiliser

Start by securing a role that grounds you. Something that provides structure and routine. As doctors, we thrive in systems. If you're feeling lost, finding that anchor will restore clarity and control.

Ideally, this role should meet a few (not all) of these criteria:

✅ Something you’re at least a little interested in.
✅ Ticks a box on the application form.
✅ Is in an environment where you want to grow.
✅ Puts you in a location where you have support—friends, family, mentors. This support is immensely important when recovering from emotional setbacks.

Examples of stabilising roles:

A trust grade job in your dream specialty—or even just in a city you love.
An anatomy demonstrator or clinical teaching fellow post.
Starting a postgraduate qualification in something that genuinely excites you—MBA, MSc, PgCert, etc.

This isn’t about "taking a break." It’s about stabilising while gaining experience. Yes, it takes courage, cold emails, and commitment—but it’s a step forward.

2. Win Something Small (and Fast)

Alongside your stabiliser, aim for a quick win. Look for something achievable that builds momentum. Think of it like pushing a snowball downhill. It starts small, but it gathers speed and mass as it moves.

There’s nothing more energising than an email that starts with:

"Dear Dr... I am pleased to confirm—"

Your place on a competitive course.
Your abstract accepted for a poster or presentation.
Your audit loop completed, with a certificate attached.

These small wins maintain your motivation. They prove to you that you're still progressing.

In Summary - Steps After Disappointment

You didn’t get the outcome you hoped for this time. But that doesn’t mean it’s over. It doesn’t mean you stop growing. It just means the path looks a little different—for now. This is your opportunity to:

Reset your mindset.
Reconnect with your purpose.
Reignite your passion.

Moving Forward

Take this time to reflect. Consider speaking to mentors about your experiences. Their insights can provide valuable perspective and guidance. Utilize this time for professional development. Attend workshops or webinars that align with your interests. This will broaden your skill set and enhance your portfolio.

Additionally, networking is crucial. Connect with peers and experienced professionals in your field. Attend conferences, seminars, or local meetups. Engaging with others can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

Embrace the Journey

Every setback is a chance to learn. Embrace this journey. It’s about growth and resilience. Remember that many successful professionals faced similar challenges. They too experienced disappointment but used it to fuel their determination.

✨ And yes, if travel is still on your list—submit that abstract to an international conference. Grow your CV and your worldview at the same time.

You've got options. You’ve got time. Most importantly—you’ve got this.