Expectation is the root of all heartache

“Expectation is the root of all heartache,” stated by William Shakespeare, has a substantial meaning that is widely supported by psychology. This proverb can be utilized in all aspects of life. It is ordinary for the human being to be let down and disappointed on some occasions. Studies show that the reason for this negative feeling is established from expectations that society and individuals themselves create.

Dr. Gary Trosclair incorporates this idea of expectation causing pain in his journal article. He discusses the ordinary roots of depression that is seen among society today, one of them includes expectation. It is normal for humans to have anticipations for themselves, whether it is simply how they appear in terms of physical attractiveness or a life-long goal. It is also common for these objectives to be unfulfilled. The disappointment due to the high expectations people set for themselves leads to emotional exhaustion, that could potentially develop into depression. Dr. Trosclair mentions that humans feel the need to find a sense of meaning in their life, so that they feel worthwhile (Trosclair). The important message that the author wants to communicate with his readers is that self-acceptance is the way to avoid this let down from expectations that cannot be fulfilled. This concept of self-acceptance relates to what was learned in lecture. Self-acceptance is the main idea behind Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. Concentrating on self-accepting thoughts rather than negative ones is key to the method. People should use this technique to try and fulfill their goals, however, as culture grows and transforms, they should take a step back and learn to be comfortable with themselves in the process to prevent heartache.

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