Understanding the Difference
Expectations are like secret hopes we have about how things should turn out. They’re based on what we want or believe should happen, often without clear communication or agreement with others involved. For example, we might expect someone to act in a certain way or for things to go smoothly without discussing it openly.
The tricky part about expectations is that they can lead to disappointment when reality doesn’t match what we hoped for. Since expectations aren’t always communicated or agreed upon by everyone involved, they can create misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and frustration when things don’t go as planned.
On the other hand, agreements are like clear, mutual understandings between people about what they will do or how they will behave. Unlike expectations, agreements are openly discussed, negotiated, and agreed upon by all parties involved. They set clear boundaries and guidelines for how everyone will interact or what will happen in a given situation.
By focusing on agreements instead of expectations, we can avoid many disappointments and misunderstandings. When everyone involved understands and agrees on what is expected, it’s much easier to work together effectively and avoid conflicts or hurt feelings. So, next time you find yourself hoping for something to happen a certain way, consider discussing it openly with others involved and reaching a clear agreement to ensure everyone is on the same page.