Unmet Expectations

Have I mentioned I am a work in progress? I think we all are. As the years tick by I learn more about myself, the world around me, and the complex nature of relationships and other people.

Some people are easy-going, they let things slide, they don't get upset that easily, they can step over the dirty laundry and piles of toys and not really notice them. My husband for the most part is one of these type of people, I am not.

I get upset about things that in the end are not that important. I like order, and routine, and planning. I like things organized and for the most part picked up. I occasionally step over the dirty laundry but it makes me crazy inside. I can only do it so many times before I have to stop and take care of it, no matter how tired I am. I am a perfectionist and I like to be in control, both of which do not bode well when trying to raise three children. I am not perfect and neither are my kids and my husband, so why does it make me upset when the little things get ignored or not completed time and time again?

I really don't know the answer. I've only been me, my entire life, not anyone else. Some days it seems heavenly to be one of those easy-going, laid back type of people. No need for planning, no need for organization, just jump in head first and sort out the details while you are in the midst of it. I suppose this is the way things are supposed to be though.

The world would not operate well if everyone was easy-going and laid back and didn't plan a thing. Some of the best ideas have come from the planners, and thinkers, and dreamers. If no one cared about getting things done, we often wouldn't eat a hot meal, our house would soon turn into a disgusting mess, homework wouldn't get completed, and grades would slide.

The natural order of things is a ying and yang, a bit of balance. Most couples I know are not similar in personality, yet are different in personality in a way that they balance each other out. I encourage my husband to plan and stay organized and on top of things and he encourages me to relax a bit, let things go, and give up some control. Your kids personalities are a total crap shoot. We have one with a similar personality to me, one with a similar personality to hubby, and one with a personality like neither one of us, it certainly keeps things interesting!

I guess all I can do when I face unmet expectations, especially from the ones I love is to try not to get upset, re-evaluate my expectations and make sure they are reasonable, and lovingly encourage the person to meet their responsibilities. Life really is too short to sweat the small stuff! Here's to making improvements in this area!