If we have expectations* of people, one of two things can happen and neither is good.

1. We have an expectation of someone and they don’t live up to it. Then, we feel disappointed or frustrated or angry. This leads to nagging, bickering or resentment.

2. We have an expectation of someone and they do live up to it. Then, we feel neutral. After all, it was expected, so there’s nothing to appreciate or be pleasantly surprised about.

Instead, we can live in the present – of being grateful for what is instead of always wanting and expecting something different.

Instead of focusing outward to what others ought to be doing, we can focus inward – to what we can control: our own mindset, emotions and actions.

We can accept the way things are instead of fighting them.

We can practice gratitude for what is instead of always wanting more.

We can have compassion and consideration for others when they make mistakes.

(*This does not refer to basic standards, such as respect, unconditional love, etc.)