Quck answer

Having high expectations can be both beneficial and detrimental. On one hand, high expectations can motivate and push us to strive for excellence. They can drive us to set ambitious goals and work hard to achieve them. However, high expectations can also lead to disappointment and frustration if they are unrealistic or unattainable. It is important to strike a balance and set realistic expectations that challenge us but are also achievable. By doing so, we can maintain our motivation and drive without setting ourselves up for failure.

---

Are you fond of engaging in sports? Do you spike a volleyball? Kick a soccer ball? Perhaps you’d prefer throwing a football! Participating in team sports can contribute to your overall health. It also presents an opportunity to develop social skills that make you a more well-rounded individual.

However, if you do play sports, you might have experienced stress from time to time. This is particularly common during games. Have you ever felt pressured from the sidelines? Coaches, parents, and even friends can impose unrealistic expectations on you. This can make it challenging to perform at your best.

Is it necessarily a negative thing for others to have high expectations of you? Not always! Sometimes, it simply shows that they believe in you. However, when expectations are unrealistic, they become impossible to fulfill. In such cases, they can have a negative impact. They might damage your self-esteem or make you feel discouraged.

Can expectations, though, have a positive effect on you? Absolutely! In 1964, a researcher named Robert Rosenthal conducted a study on this phenomenon. He carried out an experiment at an elementary school near San Francisco. First, he randomly selected a group of students. Then, he informed the teachers at the school that these students were highly likely to succeed. He claimed that the students’ IQs would significantly increase in the coming years.

Subsequently, Rosenthal observed the children for two years. He discovered that when teachers expected these kids to excel, they indeed did. He concluded that the higher expectations of the teachers influenced the students’ learning.

The next question was obvious: Why? Rosenthal found that higher expectations influenced the teachers’ interactions with these students. For instance, they provided these kids with more time to respond to questions. They also offered more specific feedback and support. The students were also granted more opportunities and approval from their teachers.

In summary, Rosenthal found that the teachers behaved differently towards the students when they held higher expectations for them. His findings have been replicated in many other settings, including the workplace, courtrooms, and medical environments. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as the expectancy effect.

So, what is the moral of the story? It is crucial to maintain high but realistic expectations for individuals. Begin by getting to know those around you and understanding their goals and aspirations. Then, support them by holding appropriately high expectations and demonstrating your belief in them. And ask them to do the same for you! Everyone can benefit from the high expectations of their friends, families, and teachers.

Give It a Try

Are you prepared to adjust your expectations? Enlist the help of a friend or family member to explore the following activities:

Expectations and Goals

Do you hold high expectations for others? Or does it vary depending on the person? Consider the individuals you interact with most frequently. Are your expectations the same for everyone? Or do you have higher expectations for certain individuals? What influences your expectations of someone? Take a moment to reflect on the expectations you have for those around you.

What are your aspirations for the future? Take some time to ponder upon it. Afterward, jot down three things you wish to achieve within the next ten years. Discuss your goals with a friend or family member and request their assistance in attaining them. Encouragement and support from loved ones can make a tremendous impact!

How did Rosenthal acquire knowledge about the impact of high expectations? He employed the scientific method! Explore more about the steps involved in the scientific method. Subsequently, enlist the help of a friend or family member to conduct your own experiment. You can either create your own experiment or use one already provided for you here.

Wonder Sources

• https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2012/09/18/161159263/teachers-expectations-can-influence-how-students-perform (accessed 07 July 2020)
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/living-single/200911/can-your-expectations-shape-my-behavior (accessed 07 July 2020)

FAQ

1. Do high expectations lead to disappointment?

Having high expectations can often lead to disappointment. When we set our expectations too high, we create unrealistic standards that are difficult to meet. This can result in feelings of frustration, sadness, and even a sense of failure. It’s important to have goals and aspirations, but it’s also important to be realistic and flexible in our expectations. By setting more attainable goals, we can increase our chances of success and avoid unnecessary disappointment.

2. How can high expectations affect relationships?

High expectations can put a strain on relationships. When we have unrealistic expectations of our partner, family, or friends, we may constantly feel let down or dissatisfied with their actions. This can lead to resentment and conflict within the relationship. It’s important to communicate openly and honestly about our expectations, and to be willing to compromise and understand that no one is perfect. By having realistic expectations, we can foster healthier and more fulfilling relationships.

3. Can high expectations lead to increased stress?

Yes, high expectations can lead to increased stress. When we constantly strive for perfection or set unrealistic goals, we put immense pressure on ourselves. This pressure can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and even burnout. It’s important to recognize our limitations and embrace a more balanced approach to life. By setting realistic expectations and practicing self-compassion, we can reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

4. How can high expectations impact our self-esteem?

High expectations can negatively impact our self-esteem. When we constantly set high standards for ourselves and fail to meet them, we may develop feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. This can erode our self-esteem and make us question our worth. It’s important to set realistic and achievable goals, and to celebrate our successes along the way. By practicing self-compassion and focusing on self-improvement rather than perfection, we can nurture a healthier sense of self-esteem.

5. Are there any benefits to having high expectations?

While high expectations can often lead to negative outcomes, there are some potential benefits. Having high expectations can motivate us to strive for excellence and push our limits. It can drive us to work harder, learn more, and achieve greater success. However, it’s important to strike a balance and ensure that our expectations are realistic and attainable. By setting challenging yet achievable goals, we can harness the positive aspects of high expectations while minimizing the potential negative effects.

6. How can we manage our high expectations?

To manage our high expectations, it’s important to first recognize and acknowledge them. Reflect on where these expectations come from and whether they are truly realistic. Then, set more attainable goals and break them down into smaller, manageable steps. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that nobody is perfect. Be open to adjusting your expectations as needed and focus on progress rather than perfection. Finally, seek support from loved ones or professionals if you find that your high expectations are significantly impacting your well-being.