Life often gives us exactly what we’re prepared to accept. When we expect more, we receive more. The phrase “It is what it is” doesn’t have to signify defeat—it can be a reminder to pause, reflect, and decide what comes next. Let’s break down 7 ways to improve your expectations and take charge of your future.
1. Acknowledge Reality, But Don’t Settle
It’s important to recognize the situation as it currently stands. Pretending things are better than they are or ignoring problems doesn’t help. Acceptance, however, isn’t the same as giving up. When you say, “It is what it is,” let it be the starting point for action rather than an excuse for inaction. Acknowledge the challenge, but remind yourself that what comes next is up to you.
Example: You didn’t get the promotion you hoped for. Acknowledge the disappointment, but instead of dwelling on it, think about the skills or experiences you can build to make yourself an undeniable candidate next time.
2. Reframe Challenges as Opportunities
Challenges often feel like roadblocks, but they’re actually stepping stones. How you frame these moments determines your ability to move forward. Rather than seeing setbacks as confirmation of failure, view them as chances to learn, grow, or redirect. Expecting challenges to bring value—even when they’re uncomfortable—gives you power over the situation.
Example: A failed business idea could teach you critical lessons about your target market or help you refine your vision. Every setback carries a hidden gift if you’re willing to look for it.
3. Set Intentional Expectations
Many people drift through life with vague hopes but no clear expectations. If you don’t know what you want, how can you expect to achieve it? Write down specific outcomes you’d like to see in different areas of your life—career, relationships, health, personal growth. Then, align your energy with those goals. When your expectations are intentional, your actions will naturally follow suit.
Example: Instead of saying, “I want to be healthier,” set a clear expectation like, “I will exercise three times a week and choose nutritious meals.” Specificity turns vague dreams into actionable plans.
4. Surround Yourself with High-Expectancy People
Your circle matters. The people you spend the most time with influence your mindset and expectations. If you’re around people who settle, complain, or lack vision, it’s easy to adopt the same habits. On the other hand, when you surround yourself with driven, positive people who believe in their potential, you’ll naturally raise your own expectations.
Example: Find a mentor who pushes you to grow or join a group of like-minded individuals striving for similar goals. Their energy will inspire you to aim higher.
5. Take Action in Alignment with Your Desires
You can’t sit back and expect things to fall into place just because you wish them to. Align your daily habits and actions with your goals. Expectation without effort is like planting seeds without watering them—they’ll never grow. When you act as if your success is inevitable, you start building the foundation for it.
Example: If you expect to land your dream job, don’t just send out a few resumes and wait. Research the industry, network with key players, and improve your skills daily.
6. Practice Gratitude for Progress
One of the quickest ways to shift your mindset is by focusing on what’s working. Gratitude rewires your brain to notice the good in your life, which builds optimism and strengthens your expectations. Celebrate every small win—it’s a reminder that progress, no matter how small, is still progress.
Example: If you’re working on improving your fitness, celebrate the fact that you completed a workout today, even if it wasn’t perfect. Gratitude for small steps keeps you motivated for the bigger picture.
7. Speak Positively About Your Future
Your words are powerful. If you constantly tell yourself that success isn’t possible or that you’re stuck, you’re reinforcing those beliefs. Instead, use language that reflects possibility and growth. Words like “I’m learning,” “I’m growing,” and “I’m capable” build a positive framework for your expectations.
Example: Instead of saying, “I’m not good at managing stress,” shift to, “I’m learning to prioritize my mental health and handle stress better every day.” This shift in language changes how you perceive your progress and potential.
Rewrite “It Is What It Is”
“It is what it is” doesn’t have to mean resignation. "It is what it is" because I choose to respond positively. Life is happening for me, not to me. Let this overused statement remind you to pause, reflect, and take ownership of what comes next. The reality you accept today shapes the future you’ll create tomorrow. Expect the best, act on it, and watch your life transform. It is what you make it. Now is your chance to fill in the blank- IT IS WHAT ______________________
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