Managing Expectations
I’ve heard many opinions about the habit of having expectations—some directed inward, others projected onto those around us. I find it more productive to focus on what I expect of myself. After all, I’m the only one I can truly control.
Expecting others to behave a certain way often leads to disappointment, unless we’re clear about what we need and willing to accept the outcome, whether or not it aligns with our hopes. Managing those external expectations means making conscious choices about how much we let others’ actions affect us.
Turning the Lens Inward
Lately, I’ve noticed that I’ve been holding myself to a lower standard than usual. I catch myself saying I’m too tired or that I need more time to relax and recover. While rest is necessary, it can also become an easy out.
The truth is, when I set a clear intention, commit to it, and follow through with discipline, I create momentum, and from that, success is born.
When Others Are Involved
When it comes to involving others, the dynamic shifts. Achieving goals with support requires buy-in, and that doesn’t happen without communication.
Some believe those close to us should just know what we want, but that’s a recipe for misunderstanding. We each live in our inner world, and what’s important to one person may not even register with another.
That’s why communication is everything.
If we prefer to go it alone, we limit the variables, but when we hope for collaboration, clarity becomes essential. We need to articulate what we’re asking for, what success looks like, and, if appropriate, what the outcome means, whether it’s a consequence or a reward.
The Cost of Silence
Unspoken or vaguely stated needs often lead to emotional fallout. Anger, frustration, and disappointment; these feelings are often the result of unmet, unexpressed, or misunderstood expectations.
When we take the time to clarify what we want, both with ourselves and others, we create space for success, understanding, and peace.
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