Are you frustrated about something right now?

I am now and this question came to my mind, “How can I deal with my frustration?” Then, I thought of sharing my steps towards solution with you.

What did I feel with frustration? I felt disappointed for not achieving something that I worked very hard for. As a result, I felt sad, discouraged, and hopeless. Giving up is an option that crossed my mind. Even though my goal is noble, and I believe if it materialized, many people would benefit. In this situation, what can I do to be free from frustration?

My first step was to think. My thought process is below:

  1. Why should I be annoyed? As a believer, I wanted to achieve something that I thought would be good for the pleasure of Allah. If people in authority do not approve it, then am I losing my reward from Allah? No, I am not. Then, why should I be frustrated? With this self-question, I am 50% relieved. It worked, Alhamdulillah!
  2. What shall I gain from frustration? The answer is that I shall suffer from bitterness, and sadness. With my past experience, I can anticipate a headache soon. That answer has calmed me down further because if there are no benefits from frustration then why should I continue to follow that road?
  3. How can I heal myself from it? That is my next logical question after the first two questions and answers. Then, I decided to seek answers from Allah’s guidance. One verse from the Holy Quran appeared in my mind quickly:

وَٱسْتَعِينُوا۟ بِٱلصَّبْرِ وَٱلصَّلَوٰةِ ۚ

And seek help through patience and prayer. [Al-Quran 2:45]

I found my answer in the verse above. In it, Allah offered two divine remedies for my frustration. The first remedy is to seek Allah’s help to deal with my frustration. I quickly adjusted my high expectation, and I surrendered my expectation to the WILL of Allah. I refreshed my faith in Allah that HE will help with whatever is best for me and my duty is to rely on HIS decision. Allah is my GUARDIAN and Insha Allah; HE will grant me the best. I should not worry at all.

I found further guidance, to remove my focus right now from my frustration towards my prayer to Allah. Without further worry, I shall pray extra Salah, and I shall seek As-Sakina (peace of mind), and divine help from Allah. My prayer for Allah’s Guidance will cool my heart, will remove my lack of confidence and hopelessness Insha Allah! Soon, Allah will show me the right course of action that I should take, Insha Allah!