207. Does life ever really measure up to expectation

Welcome to a special deep-dive episode.

Sara & Anna are back, reflecting on the everyday reality of expectations. Where they come from, how they show up, and what happens when life doesn’t go to plan.

Does life ever really measure up to expectation? 

We explore:

• Why expectations often lead to disappointment (and why we rarely notice them forming)
• The “guess what I’m thinking” trap that leaves partners feeling misunderstood
• How unspoken standards quietly damage relationships
• What Gottman, Esther Perel, and Brené Brown each reveal about unmet needs and perfectionism
• The impossible balance we expect from our partners - lover, best friend, therapist, cheerleader, and co-parent, all in one
• How mismatched expectations play out in everyday life and what it teaches us about communication and choice

Reflection:

Sara and Anna share stories, laughter, and a few hard truths about:

• How resentment grows when expectations stay unspoken
• Why gratitude can shift everything back into perspective
• The difference between healthy standards and impossible ideals
• The importance of co-creating a relationship that’s leak-proof from outside pressures and social media noise

Takeaway:

Life may never fully measure up to the picture we imagined, but joy and connection often live in the imperfect moments. When we let go of rigid expectations and focus on gratitude, curiosity, and communication, we make space for something more real and far more fulfilling.

Till Next Time

Stay Connected

Sara Liddle — info@inflori.co.uk | www.inflori.co.uk

Anna Stratis — coachdocanna@gmail.com | www.coachdocanna.com