07/25/2025
🤝Agreements > Expectations 🤐
I listened to a Steve Chandler talk recently that really stuck with me—he shared the difference between expectations and agreements.
Expectations are unspoken, stress-inducing, and often lead to disappointment or resentment. There’s no creativity in them—just pressure. Either someone lets you down, or meets the expectation and it’s just… nothing special.
But agreements? They’re creative and courageous. Two people come together, communicate, and co-create something that actually works for both sides. There’s clarity, empowerment, and ownership.
This hit home for me recently when someone said, “As your job title says, I expect you to take the lead on this project.” That one sentence gave me an instant knot in my stomach. It triggered old feelings—like being scolded as a kid—and stirred up resentment. It reminded me just how heavy expectations can feel.
And that’s why I love nurse coaching. It’s built on agreements, not expectations. My clients take the lead on what matters most to them, and we work together to create real change.
So if something feels off, try asking: What agreement could I create instead? Let go of the silent expectations and build something better—with others, and with yourself. 💜
* Steve Chandler video in the comments