Introduction

We live in a world where we cannot do without having expectations. In the context of this discussion, I will be taking expectation to be what we expect from our environment which includes but not limited to what we expect from fellow human beings such as friends, relatives, governments, etc.

Expectation is like a fuel that powers the engine. Often time, we need this fuel to keep moving. As wonderful as this sounds, there is a problem with it. Most times when expectation is not met, it can completely ground the engine in a fashion that can be likened to when fuel finishes in an engine.

It is good to have expectation but what happens when it is not met. What do you do? Because circumstances may not allow the expectations to mature. Expectation is under probability and that means that it may or may not materialize.

Definition

Expectation can be defined as a) the act or state of expecting or anticipation e.g, in expectation of what would happen. b) something expected e.g. not up to expectations. ¹

From the definition, a third party or factor is always involved. The involvement of a third factor in expectation is what makes it complex. This is because you cannot control or influence a third factor instead you are at the mercy of a third factor.

How we manage expectation can make or mar the deliverables. If so much attachment is placed on expectation in such a way that there is no alternative means considered, expectations that are not met, especially at the time it is desired, can completely ground progress.

Managing Expectation

When you set out to pursue a goal or target, you need to set the mechanism right to ensure that no single factor can ultimately hinder the achievement of that objective. This should be defined from the beginning in such a way that every expectation that is required for the success of the objective is considered properly.

mitigate your expectation

Invariably, this demands that every external deliverables that are required to reach the objective should be evaluated one by one and multiple alternatives weighed in such a way that in the event of failure of any of the expectation, alternative options would be considered.

For this purpose, managing expectation should be an integral part of any plan geared towards the achievement of any objective. In fact managing expectation should be an integral part of life since life is about meeting multiple objectives.

Conclusion

Managing expectations should form an array of actions required to attain any set objective. Having this as part of plan can make a journey towards success simplified. Believing that every expectation in life will materialize could end up being wishful thinking.

I will be ending this analysis with this saying" when we detour, we do not change our goal, we only take a different route"

When expectations of life are not met, we can change our plan to still arrive at the goal. Changing our planning or route to achievement, does not necessarily mean changing the objective or goal.

Reference

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expectation ¹

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