Expectations vs. hopes

Image source https://society6.com/product/hope-is-the-thing-with-feathers-ed3_print

Much of life consists of uncertain outcomes. Which side will win a ball game? Will I get to work on time? Will the vacation go as planned? Will my health remain good? Will a friend want to stay friends? Will this new recipe be edible? Uncertainty ranges from the trivial to the profound, from controllable to completely willy-nilly.

It’s taken me many years, but I have come to realize a “hope” mindset makes for a happier life than an “expectation” mindset. By “hoping” something happens, one acknowledges one’s limitations. While I can be deliberate about my planning and preparation, be realistic in my predicted outcomes; and be thoughtful in my words and actions - thus improving the odds of things turning out well - there is no such thing as a sure bet. La mierda sucede.

When my expectations are too high, karma looks over my shoulder and often decides to cut me down a notch or two. One’s ego is often a big part when expecting an outcome. (The waiter will give ME top notch service because I am a valued customer!)

When my hopes are high, I am pleased when things turn out as well as they do. Good things happen regardless of one’s station or self-importance. (The waiter gave us great service tonight despite how understaffed the restaurant was. What a great guy he was!)

In anticipating with hope instead of expectation, I can focus on the wins in my life rather than the disappointments. And being content with what I have, who I am, and accepting fate for what it may bestow on me, might just be the key to genuine happiness.

Just random ruminations from an old fart...