Lately, I have been experimenting with suspending expectations of my day. Instead, I reflect upon what actually did happen in the day. Our expectations can influence what we see in our lives. For example, I am an exceptionally organized person. When something is out of place, even six inches to the left, I have a hard time seeing it. My expectation is that it is in the basket to the right so I don’t even see it in the basket to the left. So I wondered if my expectations were influencing what I was seeing in other aspects of my world.
In the morning I set an intention to have a good day. In the evening, when I reflect upon the good in my day, I focused on what happened rather that what I wanted to happen. I noticed that an important relationship expanded in a new and empowered direction, I noticed that I had an opportunity to support a dear friend move in a positive direction, I noticed some really great encounters that were out of the blue, and most importantly I realized so much happens that I fail to see because I am “trapped” in my own expectations and hopes.
Have you ever been hoping for movement in a certain area of your life and felt disappointed that it was not happening fast enough? Perhaps you missed all of the other wonderful things that were happening instead. It is a subtle shift yet so powerful. Maybe you will try to suppress your expectation filter and see the day with fresh eyes. Let us know how it goes by commenting below.
Another great entry, thank you. I have always done this with my kids, paying more attention to when they do well than when they err. but it’s high time I do it for my personal environment, and also for myself. What went *right* today?
Well, for one trivial example, I remembered a home decor item I had bought a couple of years ago and had left in the box until I found the right place & use for it. Today I found a perfect place for it and will use it every day, and so I got it out and am very happy to see it right there.
Thank you for the kind words Ginger! Glad to hear this resonated with you! We have so many amazing moments in each and every day.