How to Let Go of Expectations

Unlock your preconceived notions of what should happen.

Expectations limit success.
When you expect a certain outcome, the best that can happen is that you get what you hoped for. But that outcome might be tiny matched to what is actually possible.
 
Expectations create suffering.
Put another way, we create our own suffering when we cling to expectations. Rupert Spira, in his book You Are the Happiness You Seek, said the following:
 
The only reason we are not at peace and filled with joy now is that circumstances do not conform to our idea of how they should be

How to let go
First imagine what would happen if you had no expectations. Instead, you simply meet the world as it comes toward you. When you meet it, you notice what attracts you and what doesn’t. What invites you and what doesn’t. What surprises you and what doesn’t.
 
When you expect a certain outcome, you are, in effect, trying to make the world be what you want. Stop trying to control the world. Start observing.
 
• Be curious. Unlock your preconceived notions of what should happen.
• Be patient. You will likely receive much more than you could ever expect.
• Quit trying to be in charge. Just keep your eye on the ball.
 
Intentions
Letting go of expectations does not mean letting go of your intentions. Intention is a driving force. Reflect, meditate, talk to a coach, read a book to get clear what your intentions are. Then just watch what happens instead of trying to control what happens.
 
You can become more open to those magical opportunities you never saw coming–the ones that change your life.

By Susan Steiner
Photo credit: Bruce Mars - Unsplash

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