Chances are, the last time you were disappointed by someone (especially if they are close to you), it is because they did not meet your expectations. An expectation is a picture in your mind of a behavior that is different from how that person actually behaved. In other words, an expectation, to a high degree, is a refusal to accept reality as it is, because you wish reality looks differently in some way. It can lead to judgement and disharmony.

The next time you catch yourself having an unmet expectation, try this: appreciate the person for all the things they are doing right. Appreciate them for who they are. When you focus on the positive, a flood of gratitude will follow and shift the energy in that situation to help you feel more joy and harmony. Especially since in the end, the person who is usually hurt the most by your unmet expectations is you. That’s why it helps to:

REPLACE YOUR EXPECTATIONS WITH APPRECIATION!

This also applies about expectations towards yourself. When you don’t meet your own expectations, you can feel judgement, resentment, and self-criticism rise up. Instead appreciate yourself for all the gifts you do have. Shift your focus! Choose it for your own happiness.