Are you setting a resolution for the new year? If so, what? I’ve been thinking about this as I consider realistic expectations for 2021.
While some may say they’ve given up on goal setting, it’s been my experience that having no expectations is an unrealistic and pessimistic approach that creates a void. Along with disappointment, you avoid joy and pleasure. And we need all the joy and pleasure we can create in 2021!
The adage, “hope for the best, expect the worst,” might seem like a way to protect us from disappointment, but the truth is, it doesn’t.
Researchers have found that:
- If we expect to get x and succeed, there’s a slight rise in dopamine.
- When we expect to get x and get 2x, there’s a greater rise.
- But, if we expect to get x and get .9x, then we experience a much greater drop.
The real solution is to be adaptive, rapidly flexible, and understand what is in your control.
For example, we have great expectations about the rollout of the new vaccine and a return to “normal.” But, the truth of the matter is that for many of us, when we will receive it is yet to be seen. And, in order to reach true global herd immunity, 70% of the world must be vaccinated. While I can encourage others to get vaccinated when they are eligible, I have no real control over these variables.
More Realistic Expectations
A more realistic expectation is that we may need to continue our habits of wearing a face mask, frequent and proper hand-washing, and even social distancing for quite some time. I can remain flexible, adaptive, and maintain these habits through-out the next year. When I have doubts, or when I fall into the gap of unrealistic expectations, I can focus on the Serenity Prayer:
“Grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
Reinhold Niebuhr
Remember: things are. People are. You are. What you expect of them—and yourself—makes all the difference in your personal level of happiness. You can’t change people, things, or event. You can, however, adjust your expectations.
What do you think? What are your realistic expectations for 2021? I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me here, on LinkedIn, or give me a call: 561-582-6060.
