Why I’m going into 2016 without high expectations

I normally go into each year with ridiculously high expectations. Like many people, I’ll say that I want to land my “dream” job, visit a certain amount of countries, learn something new or save more money.

There’s nothing wrong with aiming high. Some people believe that if they don’t have high expectations, they might not put the effort into accomplishing their goals. I’ve been there. And tortured myself with unrealistic goals.

But there’s also the issue of ending up disappointed if you don’t achieve these goals. Yes, I’ve been there too. I used to get really frustrated when things didn’t pan out the way I wanted them to. A bit of a spoilt attitude really.

However, I’ve changed my way of thinking in recent months. I’ve realised that high expectations can make you a perfectionist. And perfection isn’t healthy for anyone.

Instead, I’ve decided to enter 2016 with an open mind and just see how things go. If I expect nothing, I won’t be disappointed.

Of course, I have aspirations but I haven’t made them so high that they are unreachable. I’m going to remain confident in them but also be aware of the fact that life will throw a curve ball from time to time and things might not work out.

And if they don’t go as planned, I’m going to put it down to experience rather than getting annoyed at the situation. I’ll let it make me, rather than break me.

As I said earlier in the post, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with having high expectations. If they get you out of bed in the morning, then brilliant. Keep reaching!

But for me, I believe that not expecting is the key to happiness. And that’s the ultimate goal isn’t it?

Here’s to a truly Happy New Year!