"Reality check! Most arguments that arise are because everybody has certain expectations of all the others. However you can't control the way others think and act, so unburden yourself from these expectations and just see what the day has in store for you."

We all have our expectations, that’s normal. However we are constantly setting ourselves up for disappointment when these expectations aren't met. If the expectations are about yourself than that’s something you can control, however w need to rethink our expectations of others and how they might affect us.

Not the response you expected

Sometimes it's just a different response than you had hoped for, but it can shake you to your core. Important is to always realize that this other person isn’t you, has a different view on life and might think of things a bit different. Or they just don’t realize what a big deal something is for you.

Those dreams in your head

Ever dreamt of a happy family reunion around a fireplace everyone laughing, telling stories, or having a family day with brothers and sisters or your best friends that are nothing but fun? Reality check! Most arguments that arise are because everybody has certain expectations of all the others. However you can't control the way others think and act, so unburden yourself from these expectations and just see what the day has in store for you. Without these expectations you are open to enjoy everything, without waiting for your expectation to be fulfilled.

Unburden yourself, go with the flow

When one of my friends Emily and her best friend Amanda got pregnant at the same time, she had envisioned them doing everything together, buying clothes, baby talk and all those silly things. However because of these expectations that Emily herself put on Amanda, of course her friend could do nothing but fail and hurt Emily's feelings. It took awhile before  realized Emily was the one hurting her own feelings. By letting go of these expectations she was open for everything that was on offer. Their great friendship didn’t change a bit and remained strong and fantastic during their pregnancies, even though they never went baby-shopping. Not even once, and she didn't mind it one bit. She just went with the flow.

So realize what you are doing to yourself.

The above also applies to working with colleagues and handling all kind off situations in your life. How are you handling your expectations?