Raise your self-expectancy

Research shows our expectations affect our future behaviour; which is good news because it means if you expect a certain performance, you are likely to fulfil that expectation and vice versa. Easier said than done? Here are some ways to start moving towards a new ‘’ stepping up’’ you.

Shift the boundaries of your horizon. One of the things you have monopoly over is the determination and choice to expect more of yourself. If you’ve been just doing good enough, then establish a new point of departure for the new you. Orient your behaviour and choices in line with the success you are expecting from now on. When you raise your expectation and act on it, your performance is likely to rise to meet it.

Believe in your strengths and use them: Do things that you excel at, like and which others compliment you on. Raise your standards and expect nothing, but the best from yourself. There’s a lot ahead you could accomplish, but this will only happen if you take the responsibility for making it. .

Tackle progressively bigger challenges: Develop yourself to tackle bigger challenges. Dare yourself to do something you never thought you could. Stop doing stuff that has no life. Having high expectations makes you feel vulnerable, but take that bold step. Break whatever you need to do into small steps and work through each step so the challenge does not feel daunting.

Note any personal disadvantage: This can come in many forms and may not always be overt; for example, others being biased against you or feeling like you is in the position of underdog. Be aware of these ‘disadvantages’ not to let them stop you or for you to use them as excuses not to move forward but to work out how to navigate them.

Now take action: This week, write down 3 higher expectations you will start working to.