How to Handle Impossible Expectations

We can be overwhelmed with expectations. We collect them and mentally organize each to ensure we’re “hitting the mark.” On the days we perceive to meet the expectations, “it’s a good day!” On the days we fall short, “it’s a bad day.” Finding peace from this perspective is an exhausting roller coaster ride of highs and lows.

Feeling Overwhelmed?

Before we can get off the crazy ride of managing expectations, we need to focus on this one word: Overwhelmed.

We know this word well, don’t we? We can be overwhelmed by:

• • Unreasonable expectations

• • Impossible todo lists

• • Getting behind on projects

• • Desire to do ALL things with excellence

We can also be overwhelmed by something else: Gratitude.

We don’t always feel like being grateful, but when practiced, the heart will follow. Gratitude changes our outlook on life and is empowering. When was the last time you were overwhelmed with gratitude? When hiking in the mountains, I can become overwhelmed by the majesty and beauty of God’s creation, and my heart fills with gratitude. Gratitude for a faithful God who has the entire creation in His hands and mine as well!