Christmas brings out the best and worst in me.
I like to organize, plan and execute the most perfect events. I like my presents to be carefully chosen and exquisitely wrapped. I like my cookies to be freshly baked and melt in your mouth buttery. I watch shows on how to do it all; I read articles and email blasts on the greatest holiday gift ideas, the perfect way to use leftover turkey, etc. etc…..
That said, I can also have the world’s worst case of holiday depression from trying to do it all and expecting others to know how I want it done. I am better than I used to be in this regard (oh, the perfectionism!), but I can still use a bit more work in the whole realistic/unrealistic thinking arena.
My husband likes to say that an expectation is a premeditated resentment. I think this hits the nail on the head! Better to go with the flow, let things happen as they will and mind my own business. If I let go my expectations towards others and myself, my life is much happier and easier.
Merry Christmas my friend!
And now I found your blog – yay! Expectations, wow. Such an issue for all of us it seems. I’ve never heard the term your husband uses premeditated resentment. Sounds pretty close though. I’ve struggled with post holiday blues often. Just when I think I’ve made it through it will hit about the second week in January. Sneaky bugger it can be. I relate to this post a lot. Thanks for sharing yourself.