Expectations vs. Intentions

Read time: 2 minutes

Expectations.

We all have them.

For ourselves, for the people we work with, for our clients, and even for our families.

• We expect employees to step up.

• We expect clients to see our value.

• We expect our loved ones to celebrate our wins.

And when those expectations aren’t met?

We feel drained. Frustrated. Maybe even resentful.

But here’s the truth:

Expectations are just another way of giving away your power.

When we tie your happiness, validation, or self-worth to how someone else shows up — or how an outcome unfolds — you’re really just saying:

"My sense of fulfilment is in someone else’s hands."

Think about it.

• Your team doesn’t meet your exact standards.

• A client doesn’t appreciate the extra effort you put in.

• You crush a big milestone but don’t get the congratulations you hoped for.

Suddenly, your energy shifts.

Not because you didn’t show up fully, but because someone else didn’t meet the mental script you had for them.

This is how expectations drain you.

They leave you waiting — waiting for others to act, validate, or approve in order for you to feel fulfilled.

But what if you were to let go of that?

Instead of focusing on expectations, focus on your intentions.

Intentions come from you.

They’re about how you show up, the energy you bring, and the work you create.

Unlike expectations, intentions aren’t tied to anyone else.

Here’s what that shift looks like in practice:

When you shift from expectations to intentions, you reclaim your power.

• Your happiness isn’t dependent on how others respond.

• Your energy is no longer tied to what others do or don’t do.

• Your focus stays on what you can control: your actions, your mindset, your growth.

1/ Recognize When They Show Up. Start noticing when you feel drained or frustrated.

Ask yourself:

• “What was I expecting in this situation?”

• “Was my happiness tied to someone else’s behaviour?”

2/ Reframe the Situation. Shift from expectation to intention. Instead of focusing on what you wanted from others, focus on what you brought to the table.

3/ Release the Outcome. Let go of the need for external validation. If you showed up fully and aligned with your values, that’s enough.

4/ Celebrate Your Efforts. Take a moment to acknowledge yourself. You’re not here to live for applause — you’re here to build something meaningful.

When you let go of expectations, you take back control of your energy, your fulfillment, and your power.

So, ask yourself:

You already have everything you need to thrive — no external approval required.

Keep showing up, my friends.

Thanks for reading! Happy Saturday.

Much love,

Julian