Quite recently, I started using the words “managing expectations” again. I think, feel, and believe those words are related to revealing (a part of) our intentions. Especially “things” that we no longer need, want or believe in. To my surprise, those words never resulted in a blog – until now.
In my view, it’s impossible for anyone not having expectations. Especially from people whom we already know and trust (eg, children, family, friends, partner, parents). Our expectations from strangers will be minimal. However, helping another human – or even an animal – is rather universal.
Today’s issue is how do we manage our expectations??
My bulleted answers to that question:
- The simple answer is by using our deeds, words & intentions (eg, avoidance, empathy, neglect).
- A more complex answer relates to reciprocity and part 3: you get what you give (eg, lyrics, video, Wiki).
- Another complex answer is about our self-interest as everything we do is – ultimately – about gaining advantage.
Some people only take and seldom give. Once you realise this, then managing expectations will become an issue. Nevertheless, withholding help to such takers will be difficult because givers will continue giving, despite knowing that takers will continue taking.
Revealing our intentions, while managing our expectations, may well result in losing our acquaintances. In my view, such a deed has little consequences in terms of risk & reward.
Managing expectations is very complex because:
- it’s never absolute and always relative;
- it’s never objective and always subjective.
Truths are absolute and objective.
“Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed.”
A quote by Alexander Pope (1688-1744), “who is considered one of the most prominent English poets of the early 18th century”
Help is on its Way (1977) by Little River Band
band, lyrics, video, Wiki-band, Wiki-song
[Chorus]
Hang on, help is on its way
I’ll be there as fast as I can
Hang on, a tiny voice did say
From somewhere deep inside the inner man
Note: all markings (bold, italic, underlining) by LO unless in quotes or stated otherwise
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