Setting Expectations

 Setting Expectations

We’ve all heard and probably used the concept of setting low expectations and then over achieving. The mind game here is that if we know we can accomplish X, then by setting the bar to X –whatever, we give ourselves a cushion to succeed. This works great in all kinds of ways. We tell others and ourselves that this is what the expectation is. That expectation gets set in our minds and theirs and we all adjust the expected outcome accordingly. What often happens though is that we mistakenly believe, that now that the goal is less, it will be easier to achieve and so we don’t try as hard. And sometimes, even though we set out at the beginning with the intention to exceed the goal, we get busy or challenged in other ways and what was once going to be easy, is now burdensome. Net result is we often barely make the reduced expectation in spite of our abilities because, after all that’s what everyone expected.

Expectations determine the effort we will use when we set them ourselves. When someone else, like a partner or boss, sets them, it determines how hard we have to work to succeed. And what also comes into play when others set expectations for us is the question of: to what extent are they right. Set too high we feel energized because their perception is complimentary and set too low we may feel misunderstood or perhaps undervalued or underestimated.

The point is really only a reminder, that however or whomever sets the bar, it has a corresponding impact on the amount of our effort and the desired outcomes. If we can just manage this one aspect of our life we can set expectations that will make our life fulfilling and exciting. Because we tend to try to hit the mark, raising the mark or exceeding expectations changes our world and us. Expect great things and they will come. Expect less and we get that too.

Szenippet: Next time you make a wish, assume it has already been granted. That belief is how dreams come true and, of course, it’s up to you.