160. A 4-Part Framework for Achievable Expectations and How to Live Them Out

You've probably heard the advice to lower your expectations when you're blending a family.  But what does that really mean?

Does it mean you're supposed to keep the bar low and not expect much of anything?  Or is there something more to this common advice for blended families?

In this episode, we'll explore the difference between lowering your expectations altogether vs. developing achievable expectations for your family.

I (Mike) struggled for years holding onto unrealistic expectations that added a whole lot of pressure and stress to our situation.  Eventually, I realized that holding onto my own "dreams" and expecting everyone else to comply was taking us in the opposite direction of what I wanted.

My high expectations were sabotaging our progress.  

But realizing this didn't mean I needed to give up on my hopes for our family — I really wanted good things for all of us.

Listen in as Kim and I discuss how we eventually learned to get united, to set realistic expectations for our home, and make real progress toward those things we each wanted to experience in our blended family. 

You'll Discover:

• What it really means to "lower" your expectations — in a healthy way
• How to embrace realistic expectations without lowering the bar
• The difference between relational expectations and behavioral expectations
• Practical ways to reduce disappointment, hold onto hope, and live out  achievable expectations in your home 

Resources from this Episode:

• What is the Stranded Stranger / Trapped Teammate Dynamic?  Check out this episode to find out:  139. The Most Common, Challenging Pain Point Every Bended Couples Experiences
• Here's another helpful episode on this topic:  53. Overcoming Discouragement (part 3 of 3)

Ready for some extra support?

We all need some extra support along the blending journey — we're here to help.  You can connect with us for a free coaching call to see how we might help you experience more clarity, confidence and connection in your home.  Schedule your free call here:  https://calendly.com/mikeandkimcoaching/freesession

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