Managing Expectations

I just noticed this morning that my decisions are based on calculated expectations of how I might feel in a given situation based on past experiences. Here's the real life example...

Today I have an option to go to Lake George with Chris and go out on the boat with him and his Mom, Aleda. The plan is to stop for lunch at Lake George Club or the Algonquin. Let's see if I can break it down... OK I'll use the trusty Ben Franklin method of pros and cons...

Pro                                                                          Con
1. Beautiful nature experience                            Windy & Hot
2. Great hear fun stories from Aleda                  All Chris & Aleda will talk about is politics
3. Opportunity to build memories                       I can do that anytime
4. Time spent with my Honey                             Time alone at home would be nice
5. Get out of the house - Vitamin D                    I don't feel comfortable in clothes
6. Lunch would be tasty                                       LGC food sucks - I'm fasting
7. You won't wonder if you should have            You may regret not going

I'm not sure if the columns are right on that last one. It is an important one and may actually tip the scales. I HATE REGRETTING things! I have to also say that neither decision is "wrong" there won't be any consequences imposed by anyone but me. No one will be "mad" either way. That's big also because I probably wouldn't be having this conversation if I felt I had to go I would just make the best of it. 

So that brings up another item to consider with true freedom of choice - the people pleasing factor. I'm trying to estimate how I will FEEL... when I know I'm in charge of my feelings... strange, right!? So I'm really trying to make up my mind based on how I chose to feel last time I experienced similar circumstances. I'm not sure when the last time was that Aleda went anywhere in the boat with us. So there's another deciding factor.

I actually told Chris before I left that I would be going. I just confirmed my decision and reinforced / reminded myself that I CONTROL how I FEEL and experience things. And guess what, it's going to be the best day ever!

---