The Power of Positive Thinking VERSUS Expect Less and Be Happier

Situation 1:
You've heard people say that to make things happen, we need to align our minds and generate positive and focused thoughts and actions. To make big things happen we need to think big and believe that anything is possible. I certainly believe this is a great way to generate breakthroughs and success.

Situation 2:
Some people suggest that if your expectations are low, you will be happier and your reality will almost always exceed your expectations. Exceeding expectations is a good thing and feels great.

Dilemma:

1. If you aim high, you might feel disappointed more of the time.
2. If you expect less, you may not achieve as much as you are able - you limit your possibilities.

Are these mindsets in conflict? They can be but don't have to be.

What's the best way to go to maximize success and satisfaction?

Here's my stand. I think that we benefit when we aim high and go for big goals. That said, we need to keep our expectations in check. When you venture into the land of breakthrough generation, not every action or approach is going yield immediate or visual results. It's important that we become very skilled at playing big and not getting disappointed every time something does NOT happen.

Example: You make 10 big requests and get 2 yeses and 8 nos. This is cause for celebration - the two yeses represent a leap forward.

Example: You make no requests and get no rejection. Your performance met your expectations.

Example: You half-way play and ask a few small requests and get mostly yeses. You feel good. Your progress is moving forward slowing.

Let your focus, thoughts and actions go WILD and tame expectations. That's the ticket.