Personal + Professional Development

Setting Standards And Effective Communication

by Sam Kaufman on Sep 04, 2023

In our most recent podcast episode, we explored the profound impact of setting standards and effectively communicating expectations in various aspects of life, including personal relationships and professional partnerships. We discussed how this practice can be a game-changer, particularly in the realm of business.

Standards and expectations are pivotal to personal growth, accountability, and control over our lives. Sharing from personal experiences, the importance of honesty and transparency about one's expectations became evident. Especially in the business context, being upfront about what you expect from yourself and others can pave the way for progress and success.

An intriguing element discussed was the idea of being 'difficult' to be around - in a positive sense. This entails becoming someone who operates at such a high level of personal standards and expectations that access to you becomes a challenge for those who don't strive to meet these standards. The concept pushes for the need to invest in people who can help you achieve your goals and share your passion.

Taking control of your life by setting and meeting your expectations is another vital theme tackled in the episode. The danger of passivity in life was highlighted, with a focus on how it leads to stagnation and dissatisfaction. The podcast emphasized the importance of taking action, even if it's imperfect, as it propels you forward and alleviates anxiety. To make progress, you must hold yourself accountable and confront the discomfort that comes with facing your expectations.

The episode also provided insight into how children exemplify the importance of honesty and clear communication of expectations. Kids are naturally straightforward and don't comprehend the implications of their words. As adults, we often lose this honesty and directness, mainly due to societal conditioning. The podcast encourages us to reclaim this honesty and express our expectations clearly, similar to how children do.

Finally, the episode stressed the need for regular personal evolution. It underscored the idea that the person you are today may not be equipped to achieve what you envision for yourself in five years. The only way to bridge this gap is through continuous personal evolution and growth, pushing past comfort zones and embracing discomfort. This process involves cycles of evolution, stabilization, and comfort, which should be embraced as part of the growth journey.

In conclusion, setting standards and communicating expectations is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. It enables us to take control of our lives, hold ourselves accountable, and ultimately become superior versions of ourselves. By adopting these practices, we can break the chains of dissatisfaction that come with passivity and step into a life of active participation and fulfillment.