The Power of Expectations

The Power of Expectations

I once read a story that made me reflect on my own expectations and how they shape the way I see others. The story goes something like this: An old man sits on his porch, and a family moving into the area drives by. They stop and ask the man, “How are the people in this town?” The old man replies with a question of his own: “How were the people in the town you left?” “Oh, the people there weren’t very nice. They never befriended us,” the family replies. The old man nods and says, “The people here are just the same.”

Later, another family stops by and asks the old man the same question: “How are the people in this town?” Again, he responds, “How were the people in the town you are leaving?” “They were wonderful! We had great friends, and everyone looked out for one another. We hate to leave them.” The old man smiles and says, “The people here are just like that.”

While this story may seem simplistic, the premise is true: Our expectations of how we will be treated often shape our experiences. If we assume others won’t like us, we may unconsciously put up walls that keep people at a distance.

As we get older, it’s common to feel that people already have their established friend groups, making it harder to open up to new friendships or explore new experiences. But don’t let the fear of rejection keep you from forming new connections, embracing fresh ideas, or stepping into something unfamiliar. Is there something you’ve been wanting to try—perhaps traveling somewhere new, taking up a sport, or learning a foreign language or craft? Why not give it a go?

Whether it’s making a new friend, learning a new skill, or stepping out of your comfort zone in another area, your openness can lead to meaningful experiences and relationships.