Living up to Other's Expectations
At my church service not too long ago, the discussion of living up to other's expectations was a topic. This won't be a lesson in theology as living up to expectations is universal issue, believer or non-believer. Others' expectations of us is something we each deal with -likely on a daily basis. The discussion focused on young people preparing for life after high school and the pressures of family, friends and society are put on each of us to live up to certain expectations. The pressure can be stressful, distracting, and downright scary. And it may not end after high school and for most, it does not. For our family, we are asked to choose a career or job path long before we have any experience in life. Many times it's a struggle between what drives us and makes us happy and what will provide a sustainable living as we all know our families would like for us to move out someday. If a young person has figured out how to do both they are already ahead of the game. I, too, experienced this in my younger years, my dream to follow in the footsteps as my fourth grade teacher, where believing in a student far beyond what the student ever knew was a big motivator. And the expectation from my family was teaching would not provide a good future financially. Leaving that debate aside, I selected a path and lived up to the expectations of my family, yet that itch of teaching did not subside. Years later, with teaching still in my sights, I was able to find ways to teach young people through volunteering. To this expectation, I say, have faith the expectation to live up to the is the one you set for yourself, not the one others set for you. Life is hard enough without feeling obligated to live up to another's expectation. For our friends, we are asked to fit into society. In our younger years, it's fitting into crowds or school friends and follow along with the leader of the group. If you're the leader, you bear the responsibility of the influence on others, which usually is not the first thought that come to mind -impacts of influences on others. If you're the follower, choosing to make wise choices when the crowd may not be doing the same, and having the courage to stand apart. As we get older, it's doesn't change too much - just difference in crowds and influences whether work groups, school or parent groups or other outside interests. Living up to society expectations to have certain material items, drive certain cars or live in certain houses based on what other expect. To this I say - stand on your own and choose for yourself. Being able to look at in the mirror and like what you see. Live up to the expectation you have for yourself, and don't shortchanged yourself. No only will this make you happier but the lessons you teach your young ones will have much more firm grip in their life than you imagine. That will carry with your young ones well into their future as an example.Â
In the end, there will always be somebody who has an expectation of you, but having the courage to stand on your own and live up to the expectation you set for yourself. Dream big, be happy and surround yourself with people to support you. ~ChaChaÂ
