How do I manage when life isn't going the way I expected?

I'd say just keep planning and looking forward. You cant help thst life throws ya curveballs, but you can definitely chamge the way you look at em.

The key is to understand you are human. YOU ARE GOING TO FAIL! Whether or not you decide to accept the lessons and grow is what makes or breaks us as we go.

Try to find the positives in the way your life is right in this moment. What are the things you can feel grateful for? See if you can figure out what's in your control to change, and what's not. Focus on those things you can change, and try to accept the things you cannot. If something is unacceptable and does not serve you in living a healthy life (or even hurts you), try to let it go. Try to embrace change and the hidden opportunities that may come you way. Be on the lookout for open windows and blessings in disguise.

I never focus on the negative but I always keep moving forward & knocking on doors. I fall, I rise & it doesn't matter how many times. I always keep in mind that "it is always darkest before Dawn". In moments of failure or disappointment, it is important for me to stop and have a moment of reflection by going for nature walks, encourage myself continuously and most importantly I take a lesson from the experience. By having virtue of patience, hope, determination & courage then I am always equiped by not giving up during tough times but instead I keep moving.