The Trouble With Expectations

Every morning, I remind myself that when I have an expectation, to notice it, to let it go and instead be open to whatever happens.

Expectations are stories we have convinced ourselves about some anticipated future event. They may be good or bad. The thing is, we often forget that all expectations are stories based on our personal hopes and fears.

A long-awaited vacation to an exotic place, for that reason, so often disappoints, because it doesn’t live up to our expectations. A test you’ve failed a number of times you expect to fail again, no matter how much harder and smarter you prepared. The job you were certain you were going to get falls through, and it feels inexplicable.

There’s an ancient proverb that goes something like: man plans and God laughs.

Good to remember.

Quote of the Week

Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed.

― Alexander Pope

Your relationship expectations could be holding you back

Announcements

Maryanne Nicholls is a Registered Psychotherapist.  To find out more, gain access to her weekly newsletter, meditations and programs, sign up at www.thejoyofliving.co . 

If you’re interested in the topic of avoiding burnout for people who do too much, you may be interested in checking out my youtube channel.