Are you hoping for the best but expecting the worst?

Are you hoping for the best but expecting the worst?

The expression: "Hoping for the best, but expecting the worst" gained popularity through a song released in 1984; the song was the real deal for the young and agile in 1984.

Let's dance in style, let's dance for a while Heaven can wait we're only watching the skies Hoping for the best, but expecting the worst Are you gonna drop the bomb or not?

("Forever Young"by Alphaville)

It became even more popular when the renowned American rapper, Jay-Z, released his version from his 2009 album. I enjoyed this one even more.

However, the statement has caused some level of pessimism in the hearts of many as they have made it their mantra.

Let me share this story: while we were awaiting my secondary results, I came across the head girl and as we spoke about what the outcome of the result could be, she made this statement:

Well, Murphy, I am hoping for the best, but expecting the worst.

For a few seconds, I was a bit dumbfounded because I had expected some optimism from her. She finally got what she had hoped for: she failed! I was not surprised she did. I am glad I did not share her philosophy; I passed. Whose philosophy do you share?

Talk about sharing, let me share a quote by Mike Murdock:

If you settle for less, you get less than you settled for.

What we expect is like a seed. It always germinates. Less germinates to "lesser", not more.

I know that, sometimes, a favourable outcome may not be within our grasp, but it pays to keep faith alive.

If you expect the worst, you get the worst. It is simple math; not rocket science. Just like, if you plant grapes, you get grapes. It is deplorable to plant grapes and expect apples. Our mantras are revealed by the things we say. If you say you are expecting the worst, it tells you what you should get: the worst! Not the best. Because you would surely be disappointed not to receive what you had expected since disappointments are usually deviations from expectations.

So, what do we do when we are not sure of the outcome of something we are vying for? Here are a few suggestions that could help:

Expect what you hope for

It may sound like a cliché, but it is what it is: expect what you want or hope for. Anticipate the desired outcome.

Speak positively about your hopes

The head girl was not dull in thinking, but she was dull in "hoping and speaking." And, you would not like to replicate her result. Would you? I thought as much.

Relax

While waiting for the materialization of your hopes, relax your mind. Yoga could be something to consider here. Find what relaxes your mind and use it. It differs from person to person. It is music for some; sports for some; speaking with a psychologist for some. Find yours. Use yours.

Pray

This is not the least, but it cannot be off the list: Commit your expectations to a higher power through your mode of worship (this is totally up to you). While it may sound like a mere "religious ritual" to some, prayer has a way of strengthening your hope.