Always Hope But Never Expect

Isn’t it so ironic that we are so familiar with the fact that expectation leads to disappointment yet we keep expecting? We continue to hold on to expectations even when we know we will be hurt.

Have you ever wondered what’s the root of firmly clinging to expectations even when we know the repercussions and why it is so important for one to not expect at all?

Most importantly, is there an alternative to it which would keep our anticipation alive yet keep us away from unwanted discontent? The answer is yes!

An alternate to expectation is hope!

We often confuse ourselves between expectation and hope. Is hope a synonym for expectation?

Definitely not!

Expectation is a fixed and inflexible assumption that something is actually going to happen which infects and overwhelms us whereas hope is a flexible wish for something to happen.

When life calls for an unpleasant situation which grinds us in an incomprehensible inner turmoil and makes it difficult for us to tread a path of joy, we never hope but expect. We expect it to get changed over night and when that expectation is unmet, it makes us angry and restless. It makes us respond negatively and worsens our anguish.

Had we hoped, the circumstances would have been a lot more better!

Hope admits reality!

There’s an uncertainty in hope as well but it does not die when it goes unmet neither does it make us frustrated. A deferred hope does not kill the soul rather helps us to keep moving forward and fills us with life.

Expectation adversely affects our relationships and negatively influences how we see people. It compels us to see them from our perspective. We want them to be like us or act the way we want them to.

In an expectation, “I” dominates which underscores the importance of an individual and poison relationships. On the other hand, hope allows others to grow. It desires good for another and gives them room to change over time.

It is imperative to be mindful of the distinction that expectation is guided by desire which does not let us accept what we do not want whereas hope is guided by faith in a higher power which keeps us strong and optimistic.

Our imaginations and dreams influence our hopes and let us accept anything that comes and frees us from the coils of worry.

As it is rightly said,

Expect the worst and hope for the best!

Decide for yourself whether you want to expect and regret or hope and live with content.