Reflection # 32 Expectations
The Gap Year: Reflection #32 Expectations
Our labor here is brief, but the reward is eternal. –Clare of Assisi
I’ve been through a lot: saying goodbye, closing up shop, and setting aside emotional baggage. So I’ll keep my expectations in check thank you! If years of life have taught me anything it is that I have no idea what is on the horizon. It may sound a bit pessimistic, but I need this year to be whatever it is and be okay with the results. I’m in the mood to set aside expectations so I don’t get disappointed.
One determining factor in planning what a good day involves is managing expectations. I’ve found that happiness correlates with reasonable expectations. This makes sense. The higher our expectations –an upcoming vacation, holiday, or family gathering, the more likely we are to be disappointed. Expecting our days to be problem-free is setting ourselves up for disappointment. Much of life is solving problems. We can enjoy life when we acknowledge its complexity, and we have reasonable expectations.
In truth, I needed this new time of life to come in quietly, without demands, take a seat, and sit still; to have a time of relief so I could take a deep breath. I realize I’m sloughing off an old phase of life that I’ve outgrown. This is a year to get myself in order. I haven’t been able to do it before because things came at me so quickly. As I continue my gap year, I’m taking this opportunity to rest and reflect. Now, what I’m finding is the chance to pause, process, and release those past years. Then, with a clean slate, I move forward.
Now it’s your turn.
Take time to reflect and if in a group, share as you feel able.
This statement below best fits where I am right now.
a) I’m keeping my expectations in check.
b) I’m taking this year to be whatever it is and to be okay with the results.
c) I’m sloughing off an old phase of life that I’ve outgrown.
d) I welcome this chance to pause, process, and release past years.