Having expectations for something or someone is a bit of a gamble. You could be pleasantly surprised or end up getting disappointed. It’s a risk you have to take if you want ambitions in life.
Here are some ways to avoid getting disappointed or – at least – reduce it as much as possible.
Here are some ways to avoid getting disappointed or – at least – reduce it as much as possible.
1. Avoid unspoken unrealistic expectations
As humans we tend to believe that we are the center of the universe. We exist in our heads most of the time listening to our inner monologue for hours on end. This can empower us in the wrong way thinking that we are always right, that the other is always wrong. A catastrophic way of thinking if you ask me.
Let’s face it we all have expectations for our children, family, friends and staff. However if we don’t voice those out clearly or mention them casually and expect everyone to adhere to them as established rules. Then there is a serious problem in communication.
“If you don’t know what you want, how will you know when you have it?”
Let’s say it’s your birthday and you are secretly wishing that your SO would remember the occasion and get you something nice. If you keep saying that you don’t like birthdays and that you want nothing. Chances are that they will go with what you said and won’t get you anything. You’ll be disappointed when they actually bring nothing and get upset. Here you have no one to blame but yourself!
On the flip side. If someone close to you express their likeness in something during that time of year, then chances are that they want it as a gift. So listen attentively.
Let’s face it we all have expectations for our children, family, friends and staff. However if we don’t voice those out clearly or mention them casually and expect everyone to adhere to them as established rules. Then there is a serious problem in communication.
“If you don’t know what you want, how will you know when you have it?”
Let’s say it’s your birthday and you are secretly wishing that your SO would remember the occasion and get you something nice. If you keep saying that you don’t like birthdays and that you want nothing. Chances are that they will go with what you said and won’t get you anything. You’ll be disappointed when they actually bring nothing and get upset. Here you have no one to blame but yourself!
On the flip side. If someone close to you express their likeness in something during that time of year, then chances are that they want it as a gift. So listen attentively.
2. Realize that things can go wrong
People forget, people mess things up. That’s how people are like and there is no changing that. If someone really cares they will put in an effort to remember or priories what you want and need; and will go out of their way to make sure that you get what you deserve. So factor all that in and don’t be too harsh on those who care for you the most.
3.Disappointments are inevitable
You will be disappointed sometimes, there is no escaping it. Life is no where near perfect and you are bound to be disappoint at times, and that is fine.
The possibility of being disappointed makes not being disappointed more enjoyable.
The possibility of being disappointed makes not being disappointed more enjoyable.
4. If someone or something keeps disappointing you, then it’s time for a change!
Well, some people are like that. You will hear all sorts of excuses and apologies, usually coupled with promises that they will change and things will be alright. These people have no redeeming qualities what so ever. You are better off anyway..
You’ll thank me later.
You’ll thank me later.
5. Maybe the problem is you?
It could be that your expectations are too high or unrealistic. Keep your feet firmly on the ground and your head in the clouds. Rethink your past disappointments and see if there is a pattern or a common mistake that you made. Understanding your circumstances and situation would help balance your expectations.
How do you handle being disappointed? Let me know in the comments section below.