Sometimes our expectations get in the way of enjoying life’s experiences. Whether we set them too high or too low, expectations often lead to the very disappointment we try to avoid.
We become disappointed because we did not achieve a certain positive outcome – like getting low-balled on the asking price for the beloved family home or losing the state football championship your community has coveted all season. Or experiencing the subtle pang of mediocrity when your college student offers, “I’m just glad I passed,” as reason for uninspiring grades at the very expensive school you’re paying for.
What to do? Well, it is good to remember that expectation can’t be avoided. It surrounds our every step, every breath, every action.
To enhance your experiences, I suggest this: Enjoy the journey.
Instead of investing in outcomes like envisioning the celebration parade after winning the championship, or the straight-A report card of your “brilliant children,” soak in the process.
The journey may not seem as fun as successfully reaching a stated goal. But releasing the pressure and focusing on the process just may help you achieve that goal. And, it sweetens the process.
Lifestyle expert Doni Luckett features products, services and information to “live connected.” Contact her at enrichedlife@divine-basics.com.
