Expectations

What are expectations? Are they self-imposed events, processes, things, etc. that one looks forward to happening or arriving at? The loose term from a Webster’s American Dictionary states that an expectation is ‘the act or state of expecting.’ And to expect is to ‘look for as likely to happen or arrive.’ But oftentimes in life, I find my expectations aren’t met, personally and professionally. There are several approaches to consider from this point as I focus on self-reflection: Are my expectations too high? Am I communicating effectively? Does the person not realize my expectations or even care of my expectations? Is it better to just not have expectations at all, and therefore eliminate the risk of being disappointed in whatever situation? That’s a really difficult task for me. I know my weaknesses: lack of patience, insecurities with myself, and confidence in my capabilities to excel at times. So if I were to counter-balance or attack my weaknesses I could say that my insecurities should be fuel to excel and prove that I am completely capable of what I set my mind to and that people close to me won’t or have no intention of hurting me, at least not on purpose…wait, was that last part a dish of my insecurities?

There are certain personality types who you know will not meet your expectations. And most times it benefits you to not associate with those personality types. But what if you don’t have a choice but to associate with those types of personalities at some point in your life? Do you just give them a free pass? Won’t that essentially inhibit growth for everyone? Yes, in my humble opinion. But to not focus on the negative and disappointment of such situations, it would behoove the typical high expectations personality type to adjust their expectations according to the situation. It’s the least someone can do and if done effectively will benefit all parties involved and encourage ‘self and intellectual growth.’ We learn it as parents, as professionals, as friends, as partners, and as self-fulfilling individuals to adapt. And that is what brings about growth and contributes to making the world a better place to be in.

Expectations can be clear and sometimes an entity will stop meeting your expectations. That is a sign of growth for the individual, a test of adaption, and an opportunity for self-reflection. Self-reflection brings about growth for the individual and oftentimes opens doors of opportunity that otherwise would not have been noticed. Take note, I said ‘noticed’. Opportunity is always there, it just may not be what you are expecting.

I welcome input on the subject matter as I know I have only scratched the surface. Expectations and opportunity evaluation are areas that carry many perspectives and methods, as they are as unique as the individual. 

~Cat~           


Your body is meant for movement. Your brain and intellect are meant to be challenged.  Fulfill your human prophecy, explore your freedoms, and set out to do everything that you imagine (within the law of the land, of course).  :)