When people say “have no expectations”, is it usually meant to come across negative?

[Dsg1193]

I want to say no, I think they mean it as in just rolling with it & to not expect much so you’re not disappointed. I do think it can depend on the context & the person you’re dealing with, you can gauge if it’s coming from a trusted source or if the person is straight up negative. For example like if you’re interviewing at a job, going on a 1st date etc; these are situations you only have *so* much control over & can go very bad or good as we know.

Yes

No

[HollyK21]

Having no expectations in the first 2-3 months was literally my dating rule of thumb lol I say it all the time to this day. It’s not about meanness but mindfulness.

[Zack-Bann]

It means they're mature enough not to create artificial pressure and rush into something as though time is running out.


Having no expectations when you first start seeing a prospective partner is very important it allows you to take the time to learn about them and appreciate them. Plus you you won’t ignore the red flags as much.


So no it’s not a negative thing. In fact it shows that the person is secure about who they are and what they can bring into your life and have no problem letting facts speak for themselves.

[Avicenna]

No, it just means they aren’t going to rush in emotionally

[slatyb]

We all have some expectations -- that the other person will do as they have promised. By "no expectations" we mean "no unspoken expectations", like no expectations that the other person will change their life for us.

[DrPepper12]

No. It's refreshingly honest and authentic. More people should have this type of attitude in novel situations but go through with it anyway. They might like it, they might enjoy themselves, they might have a different perspective.

[ProbablyClueless]

I mean... it IS kind of a negative thing by it's very nature, right? Because the person is telling you to actively suppress or ignore your brain's instinct to look for additional clarity.

[Ladsin2]

No it's life advice. Don't build up expectations and you won't be upset when people or things fail to match up with them. I just gave that advice moments ago on here.

[FunkyMonkee]

It probably just means, don't get your hopes up, it's not likely to happen but, it just might.

[LiamJHayden]

Having no expectations to me is just being open to whatever may come.