How Expectations Shape Reality

It used to be called the Power of Positive Thinking.

But that was considered a bit too smarmy. Too calculating. Too one-sided.

Expectations, however, remain a powerful force. Athletes are trained to visualize successful play. So are others in competitive situations.

And this has become an increasingly useful tool in an economy which has shattered so many dreams, altered so many lives. Expectations must be grounded in reality because there are too many experienced, well educated, well equipped people chasing too few resources. To dream the impossible dream is a nice thought, but may not be advisable for those with responsibilities that outstrip their ability to support them.

But as the following article articulates, expectations can also shape - and reshape - reality in ways that can make it more productive and positive. The need for solid grounding doesnt change much. But converting the improbable to the possible just might. JL

Doug Dickerson comments in Fast Company:

A story is told of a young psychology student serving in the Army who one day decided to test a theory. Drawing kitchen duty, he was given the job of passing out apricots at the end of the chow line.

He asked the first few soldiers that came by, "You don't want any apricots, do you?" Ninety percent said "No." Then he tried the positive approach: "You do want apricots, don't you?" About half answered, "Uh, yeah. I'll take some." Then he tried a third test, based on the fundamental either/or selling technique. This time he asked, "One dish of apricots or two?" And in spite of the fact that soldiers don't like Army apricots, 40 percent took two dishes and 50 percent took one.
The story is a reminder of the power of expectations and how they serve you in leadership. A word of caution to leaders is not to neglect this important leadership component-staying abreast of the expectations of your customers and clients; not to mention those of your organizational team.

Let’s probe a little deeper and be sure that the expectations you have are serving you well. Here are four questions for your consideration.

Are your expectations based upon reality? In leadership there is a fine line at times between expectations and reality. It is what Colin Powell refers to as the "ground truth" of measuring your current situation against the unvarnished truth as it exists. Expectations ought to be based on a blend of your current circumstances measured against future goals. Facing your expectations with this reality will keep you focused as you achieve your goals.

Are your expectations in harmony with your vision? While expectations must be grounded in reality they too must be in keeping with your vision. Do not sacrifice your vision because of your reality. Together, your expectations can be a powerful motivator, carrying you beyond your current reality.

Are your expectations transferable? The buy-in of your expectations is critical. Have your expectations been articulated to and embraced by your team? John Maxwell was right when he said, "The people’s capacity to achieve is determined by their leader’s ability to empower." The expectations of one has limited fulfillment. But when those expectations are embraced and enacted upon by your entire team, you will see a compound effect take place that will carry you to the next level. Make sure that your expectations have been transferred and received.

Are your expectations helping or hurting? Leaders must evaluate their expectations in light of how they meet organizational goals and if they are properly promoting the health of the organization. While strong expectations serve your organization well, unhealthy ones can have a negative impact. It is important that the leader get it right and that the expectations you promote are taking you in the right direction.