Preparation ≠ Expectation

2020 is UPON US!

As we head into a new year, I want to stress the importance of preparation. New goals, joys, and disappointments are bound to come our way this year. Life is a journey, and every journey calls for preparation. You wouldn't go on a camping trip without a sleeping bag, would you? Well I suppose you could, but I certainly wouldn’t (unless I forgot to pack it - which would not come as a surprise).

1. Don't confuse preparation with expectation.

If I prepare for rain, I'll have dry clothes regardless of the weather report. If I expect sun, I probably wouldn't bring an umbrella, however, I would have to accept the consequences of wet clothes because I did not properly prepare.  Likewise, if I had EXPECTED to be a husband by age 25, I know for certain I would not have been properly prepared for a fulfilling marriage.

Entitlement can bury itself deep within expectations. It's the reason receiving an overdue reward can feel more like a transaction than a reason to celebrate. Imagine getting a raise 6 months after you expected a raise. Admittedly, my response to these moments would be closer to "it's about time" than "praise God!"

2. It's always harder to be thankful for a blessing when it's not what we expect or when we expect it.

By prioritizing PREPARATION over EXPECTATION in this stage of my life, I've found ways to greet the joys of life with an open heart. I'm able to view the blessing of marriage for exactly what it is, (a blessing!) rather than what I expect it to be. And so far, marriage has been my biggest reason to celebrate!

Managing expectations has been by far the biggest challenge in my marital, spiritual, and professional life in 2019 but I continue to make great strides. I want to make 2020 a year of growth, a year of preparation. Join me in preparing my heart, mind, and soul for big year. A big DECADE. Seek support, accountability, and community. I don't have to do it alone, and neither do you.

I'm a message away if you need me. Let's go get it.

Jeremy