On Managing Expectations and Aspirations

Find the balance and play the long-term game

Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

I was today years old when I discovered the difference between expectations and aspirations when it comes to goal achievements. Aspirations refer to what I would like to happen and expectations relate to….well…what I expect to happen.

I thought the hardest thing about accomplishing goals is the long arduous process of getting there. For short-term goals it is much simpler: set an aim, make a plan and act accordingly. It is easier to align expectations and aspirations.

The aspiration gap

In the longer term, there is another element that comes into play - higher uncertainty. Psychologist calls it the aspiration gap. The distance between where we are and where we want to be. And as I have seen from my own journey, it is a dangerous blindspot as it can cause us to quit early.

For example, if I aspire to be a keynote speaker that is all good and well. But how do I expect to become one? In two weeks, speaking at TEDx wearing a black suit?

Unmet expectations can kill our aspirations

I am currently trying to maintain my high aspirations but countered with low expectations from daily occurrences.