High Expectations
Our expectations can lead us to that which we seek to enjoy during our lifetime or to that which we will simply settle for. Expectation can be a powerful life force when coupled with the right life habits and tools. Unfortunately, many people don’t learn the process of creating or refining the tools that will leverage their expectations to achieve the fulfillment which is coupled with exceeded expectations. They lack the ability to lift themselves out of their current circumstance to attain the satisfaction of a life of well-deserved gratification. High expectations demand vision, discipline, and focused execution. It requires you to define what you want and the persistent diligence to pursue your wants with an unwavering commitment. The good news is that you can refine or develop the necessary habits!
Expectations are not synonymous with goals
Expectations have more to do with how we perform against the goals we set as opposed to being the goal we strive to achieve. In the simplest terms, the goals are the “what” you seek to achieve, and the expectations are the “character” you will exhibit in your quest to achieve the goals. Key components to attaining your goals and ultimately fulfillment include things like goals, expectations, and mindset. The successful leveraging of these components can lead to fulfillment. An illustration of the components may be useful in framing how these components build upon each other.
Too often, people follow the define-and-hope model as a means of moving towards their goals. They “kind of” identify what their expectation is (so it is “defined”), and then they simply hope that it works out in the end. If things don’t work out, “no harm, no foul” because nothing was at risk to begin with. If there is nothing at risk however, there cannot be an expected or granted great reward. Moreover, the define-and-hope model relies on chance for things to work out. Be assured that chance will never be the main ingredient in meeting or exceeding expectations and, hoping for the best but expecting the worst is not a plan suitable for gratifying fulfillment! The most effective way to meet (and exceed) expectations is to develop a clear vision for yourself, plan to meet or exceed your expectations, and cultivate the attitude (mindset) that the met expectation is yours with intentional work and ongoing determination.
Resist Cultural Autopilot
Our cultural conditioning has taught us things like "don't get your hopes up" – just in case you might be disappointed. Sadly, we've been taught in some instances to aim as low as possible. Everything above that will be a bonus. Right? Wrong! Cultural autopilot is sadly the emotional default and only through conscious effort and consistent nurturing of your desires and emotions can you begin to live life by your own standards. Only through efforts counter to cultural autopilot can you create the habits that will lead you to a life of abundance and fulfilment. One thing remains clear, what you expect with certainty (whether high expectations or mediocre ones) is what you display in your life. I dare to break away from the autopilot of the masses that settle for a mediocre life; a life that is not really fulfilled but not unhappy enough to pursue a higher standard. If you want to lift your life and the quality of your life to a higher standard, you need to start by raising your expectations. Raise your expectations of who you can be and what you believe is attainable. When you lift your expectations to a higher level you raise your own standards and raising your standards is the first step to improving your life.
The Necessary Habits
You need no special skills or knowledge to raise your expectations. You simply need a decision that from this point forward, you will never again settle for anything less than you that which rises to your level of expectations. Revisit and recommit to that decision and let it guide your behavior! Push to achieve a higher standard! The difference between hoping for something with uncertainty and depending on something with expectation is nothing but the way you control and direct the focus of your mind. What you say to yourself, the images you imagine, and your behavior in the face of challenges are what you can consciously manage and control, should you choose to do so. Next, create the plan to exceed your expectations and begin the process of consistent work toward fulfillment. Replace the doubt and fear by only seeing and working consistently toward your success. This shift in focus is the beginning of cultivating a mindset that supports exceeded expectations. Your expectations can set the stage for great results. Your intentional follow-through coupled with a sound plan and a mindset that supports exceeded expectations are the only tools you need to seek, find and exceed your expectations. Never settle, plan for and pursue your expectations with passion!
Hope Byus Coaching LLC can help
What decision do you need to make that will move you toward your goals? What steps does this decision involve? Without limits, what does a fulfilled life look like for you? Are you excited about your future or are you facing it with apprehension and fear?
For those of you who could use an accountability partner for ongoing support and inspiration, a professional coach can help you to find out what you need and can help inspire you to get there. Our goal is to successfully support you in realizing your full potential and assist in giving your life a new direction.
Our task oriented, collaborative sessions will help you to identify any problems and concerns that stand in the way of achieving your goals, and we will support you in applying the actions I shared earlier. We understand that breakthroughs require growth and growth requires vision followed by consistent action to successfully reach your goals. Book a free discovery session now!
