Expectations are resentments under construction.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: At its essence, the quote "Expectations are resentments under construction" encapsulates a profound insight into human psychology and emotional dynamics. It suggests that when we hold onto rigid expectations of how things should be or how others should behave, we are unwittingly laying the groundwork for future disappointment and bitterness.
To truly grasp the meaning of this quote, it's essential to understand the interplay between expectations, resentment, and the construction of emotional barriers within ourselves. Expectations arise from our desires, beliefs, and experiences. They are the mental blueprints we create for how we want events to unfold or how we wish people to act in various situations. While expectations can sometimes motivate and guide us, they also carry a significant risk.
When reality diverges from our expectations, which it often does, disappointment can swiftly follow. This discord between expectation and reality can breed resentment—a lingering sense of unfairness or dissatisfaction towards ourselves, others, or the circumstances. Resentment, left unchecked, can gradually build walls within us, distancing us from genuine connection and understanding.
The phrase "under construction" emphasizes the incremental nature of this process. Resentment doesn't typically arise suddenly but rather accumulates over time, fueled by repeated disappointments and unmet expectations. Each time reality falls short of our idealized expectations, another brick is laid in the wall of resentment. Eventually, if left unaddressed, this wall can become so formidable that it hinders our ability to empathize, forgive, and cultivate healthy relationships.
Moreover, the quote highlights the active role we play in constructing our own resentments. By clinging rigidly to our expectations, we set ourselves up for disappointment and sow the seeds of resentment. It suggests that while we cannot always control external circumstances or the actions of others, we can choose how we respond to them. By cultivating a mindset of flexibility, acceptance, and compassion, we can mitigate the tendency to harbor resentments and instead foster greater emotional resilience and inner peace.
In essence, the quote serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of managing our expectations and cultivating emotional maturity. It encourages us to approach life with an open mind and heart, embracing the fluidity of existence rather than clinging to fixed ideals. By doing so, we can dismantle the walls of resentment we unwittingly construct and cultivate a deeper sense of fulfillment, understanding, and connection in our lives.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Expectations are resentments under construction." is often attributed to Anne Lamott (Bio / Quotes). Anne Lamott is an American author and activist who has written numerous best-selling books on spirituality and recovery.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
