MarciaShare
The root word of expectation is expect, and it means: “to look forward to; regard as likely to happen; anticipate the occurrence or the coming of.”
In regard to our relationships with other people, we have to manage our expectations. Additionally, our expectations should be based on communication. Based on the very definition of the word, how can you anticipate something as likely to happen, if there has been no communication between you and that person? In other words, you have to be extremely careful in having expectations, for other people, that have not been communicated, nor agreed upon.
The source of so much unhappiness is the mismatch that can undoubtedly occur, between our expectations, and the reality of a situation. We have to understand that everyone does not have the same value system that we have. For instance, we cannot expect that what is important to us, is equally important to another person.
Unmanaged expectations can lead to feelings of disappointment, sadness, anger, feelings of betrayal, etc.
People often expect perfect relationships. But there will never be perfect relationships, because there are no perfect people. You have to expect people to be human.
I would even make the argument that if we are to truly be happy, and to maintain peace in our hearts, we have to drastically minimize our expectations. The less that we expect from other people, the happier we will be. Expecting less from others also fosters a heart of gratitude. Managing our expectations allows us to truly recognize, be grateful for, and appreciate the kindness of others towards us, which we should never take for granted.
Our expectations should be in God, and in ourselves…beyond that, we should expect very little.
Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD.
Jeremiah 17:5
