Okay, so here is the truth. I don't believe there is a foolproof way to save ourselves from all disappointments; however, we can avoid many.

You know that feeling of anticipating something or picturing how a particular moment in time will play out and then when the time comes, you feel let down or maybe even upset or disappointed because it didn't match what you envisioned? I've been there and spent many years feeling sad, angry, and hurt until I figured out why it was happening.

There is a lengthy word we are all familiar with that creates havoc in our lives, and most of the time, we are unaware it's doing it. The word is expectations, and many of us are guilty of attaching our expectations to people, places, and things and are then left to wonder why we feel so bad when things don't go as we thought they should.

Now, not all expectations are misplaced. Some inspire us to do better, be better, and strive for more. I have some pretty high expectations, yet to be honest, when I impose high expectations on others without even communicating them to those involved, all concerned are often let down.

Even worse is when we set up ideals in our minds such as the perfect vacation, a night out with friends, a first date, a conversation with someone, a family birthday, or holiday and it falls short. Ask yourself, did it fall short, or did it not match what you anticipated in your head? Were you living in the moment or watching the scene play out not as you had planned? Don't get me wrong. I am not saying that what we want and what we get will not ever match. What I am saying is that by being aware of your expectations, you can also be mindful of when they take over the situation and led to a less than desired experience.

Next time your feel let down or disappointed, ask yourself – Did I allow myself to live in the moment and be fully present, or did my expectations not being met rule the outcome?