Reminder: Identifying Your Hidden Expectations

Innovator Habit of the Week

Research-based strategies, insights and inspiration to create value and drive positive change, in the world and in yourself.

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This is your mid-week reminder to do an expectations check.

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Want to feel fewer negative emotions? You can, but it takes some introspection.

In this week’s article, I explained how so much of the emotions we feel are driven by our mindset. That’s why shaping your mindset to a great degree shapes the emotions you feel.

This Weeks Challenge:

Identifying Your Hidden Expectations

Ask yourself: What’s driving my emotions?

As you go through your week, Think about how and when you’re predictable. When are your reactions to things pretty much the same? What happens at home or at work that gets you upset? Or, gives you joy? What does you’re spouse or partner do that always sets you off? Or, reminds you why you love them? What do your kids, friends or co-workers do that disappoints you or makes you proud?

Then, step back and ask yourself: Why is that how I react?

HINT: It’s not just because of something they do. It’s primarily about you and your expectations.

So often, especially when we’re upset, we tell ourselves it’s because “they’ did something. But the question I want you to think about is: Why does that action on their part upset—or please—me?

What you will learn