Expectations

Wednesday Wisdom~ Much of our life is driven by and affected by our expectations. Expectations can be a good thing, but they can also be dangerous. One of the most frequent reasons why we experience pain and hurt is because our expectations do not match up with reality. Due to our fallen nature, we will often not meet other's expectations, and they will not always meet ours. However, instead of looking at that fact as a detriment to the relationships we are in, we can use that bit of knowledge to help us exist above and beyond our expectations. Expectations aren't always detrimental They can drive our dreams and how far we push ourselves to achieve our goals or change ourselves. This in itself can be a very positive thing. What we must be in control of is our emotions and outlook when we or our life does not meet our expectations. Unmet expectations provide the opportunity to reevaluate our motives, reassess our goals, and make adjustments accordingly. Expectations provide us a direction to take on the road of our lives, but it is up to us to don a raincoat when storms prevail, change our direction when the road necessitates, and occasionally stop and rest when we are weary on the journey.

When I went searching for a quote on expectations I was surprised at how negative everything was: don't ever trust anyone...they'll just let you down kind of things. Not inspirational...or helpful at all. I did find one quote that I really liked and hope it helps you not necessarily give up all of your expectations but to manage them so they are a positive force throughout your life and your relationships.

"When you release expectations, you are free to enjoy things for what they are instead of what you think they should be."
~Mandy Hale