A lot of my disappointment stems from expecting too much — l keep thinking people will act with basic kindness, empathy, or decency.
I assume they’ll treat others how they want to be treated, communicate honestly, or just show up with respect. And every time, that’s where I go wrong.
Disappointment is often rooted in expectation.
The quote highlights a common human experience, assuming that others will behave with kindness, empathy, and decency, only to be let down when they do not.
This expectation arises from the belief that people will act according to the values we hold dear, such as the Golden Rule: treating others as they wish to be treated.
However, the reality of human behavior frequently falls short of this ideal, leading to frustration and disillusionment.
Disappointment stems from an inherent assumption that people share the same moral compass. We expect honesty, respect, and basic courtesy because we believe these qualities are fundamental to human interaction.
When people fail to communicate truthfully, act selfishly, or disregard the feelings of others, it can feel like a betrayal, not just of personal trust, but of the fundamental principles we expect to guide social behavior.
However, the truth is that people operate from different values, experiences, and perspectives. Not everyone was raised with the same ethical framework, nor does everyone prioritize kindness over self-interest.
Many people act based on personal gain, convenience, or even indifference rather than a conscious effort to be fair or considerate. Some may lack the self-awareness to recognize how their actions affect others, while others may intentionally disregard moral expectations. The result is a mismatch between our expectations and reality, leading to repeated disappointment.
Another key factor in this cycle of disillusionment is the assumption that others possess the same level of emotional intelligence or self-awareness. Those who deeply value empathy often project that value onto others, believing that kindness is an intrinsic part of human nature.
However, while many people do strive to be kind, not everyone has the capacity, willingness, or motivation to act with consistent empathy. Some may be struggling with their own issues, operating in survival mode, or simply prioritizing their needs over those of others.
Furthermore, the quote suggests that disappointment is not a one-time occurrence but a repeated pattern. The phrase “every time, that’s where I go wrong” reflects an ongoing struggle, a cycle in which expectations are set, unmet, and then reevaluated, only for hope to be rekindled and shattered once again.
This repetitive disappointment can be emotionally exhausting, leading to cynicism, resentment, or even withdrawal from relationships. It raises the question: should one lower their expectations, or should they continue to hope for a better world?
Some might argue that the solution is to expect less from people, to assume that kindness is the exception rather than the rule. By doing so, one might avoid frequent disappointment.
However, this approach risks fostering bitterness and detachment, which can hinder meaningful connections. Others might suggest shifting focus from external expectations to personal values, choosing to be kind regardless of how others behave, rather than expecting reciprocity.
Ultimately, the disappointment described in the quote is a reflection of a deeper struggle between idealism and reality.
It highlights the difficulty of navigating a world where kindness is not always guaranteed, yet still striving to uphold one’s own moral standards. While expectation may lead to heartbreak, it also speaks to a fundamental hope, that people are capable of decency, and that, despite repeated letdowns, kindness remains a value worth believing in.
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