All round, it seems that expectations are a mug’s game, whichever way you look at it.
If you have expectations of others, you are sure to be disappointed. Not that they necessarily want to let you down. It may simply be they have other priorities, or interpretations of what you are expecting.
Having expectations of your own behaviour is also likely to end in disappointment. Few of us can live up to our own expectations, especially those with a perfectionist addiction.
Trying to live up to other people’s expectations? Of course you don’t want to disappoint them, who would? Yet try as you might, getting this right is notoriously troublesome – as the people pleasers of the world will testify!
Though it is natural, and normal to have expectations, that doesn’t mean it is wise. It could be said that when it comes to personal relationships, it is most certainly unwise.
Whenever you expect you run the risk of disappointment, either yours or others.
There is a better way, a far better way of proceeding. Healthier, happier and actually, more likely to get you what you want.
This is likely to be one of the early topics in Let’s Talk: Handling Difficult People.
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- Strengthening Trust and Credibility
- Diagnosing Relationship Problems
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