Happiness is a subjective feeling, and what makes one person happy may not do the same for someone else. However, it’s something that the majority of people pursue throughout their lives.

Different expectations can lead to different levels of happiness, and this is where scientists come in. Psychologists and behavioral experts have conducted various studies to explore how various expectations impact one’s level of happiness.

Humble Expectations

Many people erroneously believe that the only way to achieve happiness is by attaining great things and setting lofty goals for oneself. However, psychologists have found that individuals with more modest expectations tend to be happier.

For instance, those who find joy in the little things in life, such as spending time with family or taking a walk in the park, are generally happier than those who chase after material possessions.

Focusing on small, attainable goals rather than unattainable ones can make a significant difference in the way a person feels about their life.

By placing modest expectations, individuals can experience feelings of satisfaction, fulfilment, and contentment with their everyday lives. They can enjoy simple pleasures without the added stress of striving to achieve something that may never come to pass.

When one’s expectations are too high and seemingly impossible to reach, it can lead to disappointment and frustration. This can ultimately lead to feelings of inadequacy and unhappiness.

In contrast, having simple and achievable goals can provide people with a sense of purpose and helps them derive a sense of accomplishment, which eventually leads to happiness.

Great Expectations

There’s no denying that goals are essential to achieving success in one’s professional or personal life. However, according to psychologists, there’s a double-edged sword to setting high expectations.

They suggest that people who have great expectations tend to be more successful and achieve their goals faster. It’s essential to set the bar high and strive for the best possible outcome.

However, while setting high expectations can lead to professional success, it can also lead to emotional stress and even mental health issues.

When people continuously push themselves to achieve their goals, they may lose sight of what genuinely makes them happy and content. It’s possible to attain everything but remain dissatisfied and unhappy, leading to depression, anxiety, and even burnout.

The pursuit of greatness may create immense pressure on individuals. They may seek external validation and approval, which can affect their mental health even more.

What Scientists Say

Psychologists and academics have conducted extensive research on the relationship between expectations and happiness. Martin Seligman, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania, conducted a study on optimistic and pessimistic students in 1988.

He found that optimistic students with high expectations were happier, had higher self-esteem, and were more successful than their pessimistic counterparts.

However, another study conducted in 2006 suggested that setting high expectations could lead to more stress, anxiety and lower one’s level of satisfaction.

The research found that people who have high expectations were likely to stress out more if they didn’t meet their goals, leading to lower levels of satisfaction with their lives.

There are pros and cons to both great and humble expectations in terms of happiness. Finding the right balance between the two can ultimately lead individuals to true happiness, where they can set achievable goals while still striving for excellence.

The Importance of Gratitude

Regardless of what expectations one has, practicing gratitude is essential for maintaining joy and happiness in life.

Counting one’s blessings and focusing on the positive aspects of life can help one cultivate a positive outlook and increase their level of happiness. Gratitude is the key to living in the present and enjoying the little things in life, whether big or small.

Conclusion

Expectations can significantly impact a person’s level of happiness.

Displaying too high of expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy, stress, and anxiety, while modest expectations can foster a sense of satisfaction, contentment, and happiness. However, finding the right balance between high and low expectations and practicing gratitude is essential for true happiness.