We will all face disappointment during our data science careers, it's inevitable. Maybe you have disagreed with something your organization did or maybe you experienced a management decision that made you uncomfortable. Facing the disappointment head on will help you grow as a data science, machine learning, advanced analytics or artificial intelligence professional. Use these steps to make the most out of a less than perfect situation.

Take a step back

When the disappointment occurs, it is important to take a step back. Take time for yourself to give you the space you need to get control of your emotions. Lashing out because a decision was made that you did not agree with is going to cloud your judgement and make it difficult to communicate effectively with those around you. Take the time you need to stay calm.

Gather more information

Before talking to those above you, ensure you have all the information that you need to make an informed decision. It is easy to isolate yourself when working with data and getting a bird’s eye view on the decision can help clarify the reasons it was made.

Escalate your concerns

If you attain all the information available and the decision still does not sit right with you, escalate your concerns up your company’s chain of command. Keeping open lines of communication will display your investment in the work and will keep you up to date on more information as it becomes available.

Know your rights

If the decision becomes an ethics issue it is important to know your rights as an employee. You should not have to decide between your ethics and your work. You always have the right to ask to be assigned to a different project or request that you name is not associated with the project. At the end of the day, you entered data science to help others and if your work does not with that mission then maybe a change should be in your future.

Learn from the situation

Dealing with disappointment in your data science career can teach you valuable lessons that you may not have otherwise learned. Debrief the situation and identify steps you can take to prevent the situation from happening in the future. Collaborate with others involved to create an action plan that reaches outside if your own department.

Without a doubt, it is intimidating to face disappointment in your data science career. Despite this, it is important to allow yourself to experience and process the negative emotions that come with the disappointment. If you face it head on, you can use it as an opportunity for growth, both professionally and personally.