Great Expectations

Guest Blog Post by Kita Szpak 2/11/12

Interesting that the idea of expectations should be top of mind this month, when this year is Charles Dickens’ 200th birthday* – February 7 to be exact. Who can forget the image of young Pip extending his bowl and asking, “Please, Sir, can I have some more?” And being absolutely dismissed for his outrageous request.

Like Pip, we sometimes have great expectations especially when they are linked to goals we have set for ourselves. Nowhere is this more “in our face” than at the beginning of a New Year where we promise ourselves that we will lose weight, quit smoking, take that course, read a book a week,
etc.

Having potential is a mighty thing – having the hope for it is also mighty. However, disappointment occurs when the expectation (of fulfillment) is not there as soon as was hoped for. To avoid this kind of psychological setback, try doing the following:
1. Set an intention instead of a goal. Your intention to achieve puts less pressure on you to succeed.

2. Establish small steps rather than big milestones: I want to lose 2 pounds this month rather than I need to lose 25 pounds.

3. Remember that true contentment comes from within – who you are rather than what you do.

Having expectations can be exciting as they have a sense of anticipation about them that adds spice to our lives. When used in good measure, expectation is a blessing.

*For you Dickens fans, here are the latest publications honoring his 200th birthday:

The Cheshire Cheese Cat: A Dickens of a Tale

Becoming Dickens

Charles Dickens: The Dickens Bicentenary 1812-2012