When expecting, expect the unexpected

People don't hurt you. Your expectations do. ~Muna

It's easy to place expectations on people or circumstances because we most times feel entitled to the favor we receive from them. Because of the expectations, healthy or not, it becomes easy to lose the attitude of gratitude.

Expectations and Trust

"Expectations are premediated resentments".

We expect so much from friends, family members, and co-workers, both what we have the right to and what we don't, and when we get disappointed, we lose the respect and trust we have for them. We forget that humans will always be humans and no one has the obligation to please anyone 100% because sometimes, pleasing people could mean displeasing yourself. In certain cases, we just have to be selfish about our time, energy, and effort just to keep sane. It's worse when the disappointment comes from the people we love and trust so much; wells up hatred and rage on the insides, which is a big destroyer of relationships.

Entitlement

In this thing called entitlement, there have to be distinct boundaries. It's one thing to have rights. It's another to have a feeling of entitlement, especially in situations where it's totally uncalled for. Entitlements breed expectations, and when these expectations are not met, it breeds disrespect.

Expecting the Unexpected

Whilst having expectations on people and situations, it is necessary and very recommended to expect the opposite of your desires. Life is a bed of roses because roses have thorns too. So while expecting to behold the beauty of the rose flower, expect the pricks of the thorns too. The only difference is being careful enough to not let the thorns prick you. But then, you can't always be careful about thorns in roses, and so is life. Prepare to get the reverse of what you wished for while being hopeful and optimistic to get what you want.

"Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed" ~Alexander Pope