It seems like everywhere you turn there are expectations heaped upon you. You have those from your family, friends, co-workers, supervisors and your community. You also have high expectations that you heap on yourself to be better, stronger, smarter, more successful, and on and on. And whether you’re ready to admit it or not, you have expectations that you willingly take on even from people that you don’t know.

Yes, this happens each time you tune into the media, especially social media. Facebook alone requires the participant to strive to “keep up with the Jones’,” your friends, celebrities and everyone else who posts pictures of their “seemingly” perfect life. This fast pace of never ending expectations can quickly pull you away from joy. Perhaps a social media fast is in order.

If you’re ready to choose joy over expectations then you need to look at what you’re currently committing to versus what would bring you joy. Take time to identify the valid expectations that you feel are important (and necessary). These probably fall into the category of family, work, health, etc.

Then choose to disregard (or intermittently attend to) the others only when and if you should decide to do so. This should give you plenty of time on your calendar to choose joy over expectations. Remember, it’s all a choice and that choice is up to you. Choose joy.

Kim Monaghan, PCC, RYT, CPBS is the owner of KBM Coaching & Consulting LLC, a boutique Human Resources Consulting and Career Coaching Firm serving a national clientele.