We all have expectations, whether those are to have a great weekend, pass an exam, marry the partner of your dreams, or, of course, have a job that leaves you fulfilled and financially rewarded.
We also have expectations of other people, and people live up to our expectations of them: If I expect a person to be nasty to me, then chances are I am going to enter a conversation with that attitude. I am going to start an interaction with this person, on my guard, and this person is going to respond accordingly.
So, there we have it, I had an expectation, and the other person lived up to that expectation. My question, or suggestion, is: What if we only expected the best from everybody? What if we only expect kindness and understanding from the people we encounter? I’m willing to bet that they will live up to that expectation, with perhaps only a few exceptions.
However, we are often taught that people are generally unkind, looking to get one over on you, looking to rob you in some shape or form. Therefore, we leave home with that mindset and that expectation.
Today my challenge to you is to change your expectations of others.
Whoever you approach or approaches you today, expect them to be kind, considerate, understanding, and respectful. Thus, when you start an interaction, start with the basis of This is such a nice person! Your approach is immediately different, and their response is different.
Now, gentle readers, I am not just talking; I have put this into practice. Let’s call it a little field study conducted the past week or so.
When I went to the mall or a service provider, I went with the attitude that whoever was behind the counter was just the nicest person. I walked in with a smile, asking, “How are you?” and perhaps adding a compliment. “You’re looking awesome today,” or “I love your shoes” or “Those earrings are amazing!”
The warmth with which people responded has been a revelation.
I stopped a young lady in the middle of the mall and commented on the perfume she was wearing. I said it smells divine (which it did), and I asked her what it was. (I’ve been searching for it ever since with no joy, but I shall hunt it down.)
She was taken aback by the compliment, and I got the biggest smile and “thank you” in return. I’m sure it made her day, and her warm response was equally rewarding.
So, let’s put aside all the ills of the world, all our preconceptions, all the challenges we are facing, the anxiety, and the stress of everyday living, and let’s change our minds to people are kind—because most people are.
People are considerate and friendly. Most people just want to get on with their lives, make a living for their families, have time with their loved ones, and not get involved in all the nastiness that is being pushed down our throats.
So, my challenge to you, gentle reader, is to be the best you can be, be the nicest you can be, and expect the same from others. However, it’s up to you to start the ball rolling, to set the tone, if you will.
When you walk into the office, the shop, or wherever, do it with a smile and kindness. When you order at a restaurant, do it with kindness and a smile, and if the waitron apologizes for a delay in bringing your order, just say that’s absolutely no problem. Just notice the change in that person instead of ranting about the poor service.
The world—all of us in our everyday lives—needs more kindness. We need more understanding; we need more smiles. Make your expectations positive and see how things change around you and for you.
You make someone’s day, but they also make yours—it’s a win-win situation.
