Marlene Shiple, Ph.D. The Life Coach Dr.: Heal Your Past + Heal Your Thoughts + Heal Your Self => Heal Your Life!

If you are a fan of Charles Dickens, you know that great expectations can lead to house fires and being pursued by escaped convicts. The consequences are usually more subtle in real life, but managing your expectations can make you happier and more successful.

Aim High and Set Expectations for Goal SuccessIn fact, psychologists believe that the most effective approach is to aim high while being flexible and realistic. Try these tips for enjoying great expectations while you turn setbacks into victories.

Setting Your Expectations

1. Distinguish between goals and expectations. You can want to lose 30 pounds or buy a new car without letting your happiness depend on such events.  Work with whatever circumstances come your way. Replace disappointment with acceptance and curiosity.

2. Let go of the past. Most of our expectations are based on our previous experience. Examine your old habits and make conscious choices about how you want to live.

3. Raise the bar. Ambitious goals challenge you to try harder. You hone your skills and rack up achievements that build your confidence. Even if you need more than one try, you know that you’re making progress.

4. Savor the anticipation. Another advantage to reaching high is that it gives you so much to look forward to. You feel motivated to put forth your best efforts when you remember the rewards.

5. Be realistic. At the same time, keeping your goals and expectations reasonable reduces stress. Understand your abilities and strengths. Calculate what resources you have available.

I encourage you to use these tips over and over to increase the happiness in your life! Use them to help you create victories in your life.

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