We often hear about “letting go”- of people, of pain, or of situations that no longer serve us. But there is another, often overlooked layer to this spiritual practice: letting go of expectations.
Why Expectations Hold Us Back
In our spiritual lives, we prepare, we meditate, and we ask Spirit for guidance. Yet, without realizing it, we sometimes cling to expectations about how answers should appear, or how life should unfold.
As Joe Dispenza beautifully reminds us, sometimes we need to “take our hands off the wheel.” Spirit is the highest form of intelligence, and when we let go, we invite that wisdom to guide our lives in ways we couldn’t have imagined.
My Grandpa’s Greatest Advice
My grandpa often said: “Never expect anything, but always appreciate everything. And you won't ever be disappointed.”
This simple truth carries deep spiritual wisdom. Expectations can close us off to what Spirit wants to show us, while appreciation opens our hearts to life’s surprises.
When a Missed Opportunity Became a Blessing
Years ago, I applied for an artist residency that I truly wanted. I pictured how it would look on my resume and what doors it might open. When I didn’t get it, I felt very disappointed.
Later, I realized it would have taken place during the Covid lockdowns. My family wouldn’t have been able to visit, and most importantly, I would have missed precious last moments with my grandpa. What I first saw as a setback turned out to be Spirit’s way of clearing the path for something far more important: time with my loved ones.
3 Ways to Let Go of Expectations and Trust Spirit
Letting go of expectations can be hard, especially when you are someone who expects a lot of themselves or carries the weight of responsibilities and expectations from others. Here are three tips to help you let go—meaning, to overcome yourself:
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Practice Gratitude Daily
When disappointment arises, pause and name three things you can appreciate in that moment. Gratitude shifts focus from what’s missing to what’s already here. -
Release the “How” in Prayer or Meditation
When asking Spirit for guidance, don’t demand a certain form of answer. Instead, affirm: “I trust Spirit to show me what is best, in the right way and time.” -
Celebrate Small Surprises
Pay attention to little blessings you didn’t plan - an unexpected encounter, a synchronicity, or a quiet moment of peace. These are Spirit’s reminders that life unfolds beyond our expectations.
When Things Don’t Work Out as Planned
Life is full of moments that don’t go the way we expect. If a relationship didn’t work out, maybe it came to teach you self-love. If a job slipped away, maybe it created space for a more aligned opportunity. If plans fell apart, maybe Spirit was protecting you from something you couldn’t yet see.
When we shift from expecting to appreciating, we begin to recognize the hidden blessings woven into every experience.
Expectations Limit Spirit, Appreciation Opens the Heart
When we let go of expectations, we open ourselves to Spirit’s greater plan. We may not always receive what we wanted, but we receive what we need. And often, Spirit exceeds our hopes in ways we could never have imagined.
My wish for all of us is this: may our expectations not only be met, but exceeded. And if that hasn’t happened yet, trust that Spirit may be, just maybe, clearing the path for something better.
Connect with Spirit: Mediumship Readings
If you are seeking comfort, guidance, or a renewed connection with your loved ones in Spirit, as an Evidential Medium I offer evidential mediumship readings. These sessions bring healing, clarity, and reassurance that you are never truly alone.
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