09.03.21 The 3rd Practice for Developing Realistic Expectations as You Wait

3. Develop Realistic Expectations about Personal Growth

During this season of waiting, recognise that personal growth takes time. Therefore, avoid expecting that the people you interact with have an already developed and mature character in every aspect of life. Instead, understand that responsible individuals often grow through reflection, correction and a deliberate effort to improve their conduct. Be realistic by recognising that development occurs gradually, not all at once. Proverbs 4:18 illustrates this gradual progress by observing that the path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter until the full light of day, rather than shining its brightest right from the beginning of dawn.

That said, having realistic expectations about someone’s growth does not mean that you should excuse repeated patterns of irresponsible behaviour. Therefore, learn to distinguish between people who are willing to learn and adjust their conduct; and those who apologise yet show no meaningful change in their conduct. Then, expect growth from only those individuals who display responsibility, consistency and a deliberate effort to improve.