Expectations in Love: Why Keeping Them Might Hurt You

The Trap of Expectations in love

In relationships, expectations in love can sometimes feel like the glue holding things together. Yet, when they’re unmet, they become the very reason we feel hurt or disappointed. Let’s take a deeper look at the impact of expectations in love, with a real story of a couple, Ashu and Paro, whose relationship fell prey to expectations. By the end, we’ll explore if keeping expectations is worth it in today’s world.

Why Do We Have Expectations in Love?

When we’re in love, expectations come naturally. We anticipate our partner will show up for us, understand us, and be the person we need them to be. Often, however, this leads us to set unrealistic standards, expecting our partner to be perfect, always there, and always supportive — when life rarely works that way.

The Love Story of Ashu and Paro

Ashu and Paro had a love story like any modern-day romance. They met during college, fell in love, and became inseparable. Their relationship had all the spark and excitement you’d expect — late-night calls, long messages, and endless promises to always be there for each other.

As their lives progressed, Ashu landed a high-pressure job that demanded a lot of his time and energy. Paro, on the other hand, was still studying and often felt lonely when Ashu couldn’t make time for her. She expected Ashu to always be there for her, just as he had during college. Slowly, unmet expectations became the cause of endless arguments, and they both started feeling hurt and distant.

Paro thought Ashu was “taking her for granted,” while Ashu felt like he could never meet Paro’s endless needs. Their love story, once so perfect, became an example of how expectations can damage even the strongest of bonds.

Should We Keep Expectations in Love?

Ashu and Paro’s story brings up a valuable question: should we really hold expectations in relationships? Here’s what to consider:

1. Realism vs. Idealism
   While it’s normal to hope for the best from a partner, expecting someone to be perfect is setting them up to fail.
2. Communication Is Key
   Had Paro communicated her feelings without expecting Ashu to just “know,” things might have been different.
3. Balance
   Finding the middle ground between supporting your partner’s growth and understanding your own needs is crucial. Balancing expectations with reality can protect a relationship from unnecessary pain.

A Funny Take on Expectations in Love

Let’s face it, expecting someone to be the “perfect partner” is like ordering pizza at midnight and expecting it to be as fresh as it is during the day. Love is a lot like pizza: if you’re too picky, it loses the fun. Just like how Paro’s “perfect relationship” became soggy with unmet expectations, remember that love needs flexibility, not perfection.

Tips to Manage Expectations in Relationships

1. Set Realistic Expectations
Expect your partner to be human, not a mind reader or a superhero. Setting realistic expectations is essential.

2. Communicate Openly
Express your needs openly and listen to your partner’s needs as well. Love grows stronger when both sides understand and respect each other’s limits.

3. Appreciate Small Efforts
Sometimes, the little things mean a lot. Don’t overlook the small gestures in search of grand ones; they’re often what matters most.

Conclusion: Reality vs. Expectations in Love

In today’s world, it’s important to remember that expecting too much can sometimes lead to hurt rather than happiness. Ashu and Paro’s story is a reminder that love isn’t about molding someone to our expectations but rather growing together, respecting each other’s paths. So, should we keep expectations in love? Maybe, but with a little flexibility and understanding.