Expectations are the result of collective influences—from our parents, our peers, and our experiences. Expectations are natural; we hope for the best, and when things start going our way, we begin to expect it. This has its positive aspects (greater confidence and sense of direction), but there is a significant downside. An "expectant" attitude often becomes inflexible and non-negotiable. What happens when our expectations are not fulfilled? We frequently respond with negative comments: "Oh, that competition was so unfair," or "I was born for that role; somebody must have paid off the director." If we turn our frustration inward, we might start thinking of ourselves as failures.

All of us know how damaging negative self-talk can be. When we impose expectation on our lives, we expose ourselves to disappointments that can hurt us. Expectation can also have a negative impact on our performances. Some performers are so expectant before a performance that they become crippled with the fear of failure. Stage fright is the inevitable consequence.

Career development can only occur if expectations are kept in check while a hopeful attitude is given a free reign. Hope is a positive, flexible, and open attitude. When we hope, we are open to new ideas and possibilities. We are flexible in our thinking. We are easier to be around—calmer, more relaxed, and more centered.

Recently, I was talking with a group of colleagues about the differences between hope and expectation. One of them presented the following scenario as an illustration.

Two skilled Olympic athletes are matched in a contest for the gold medal in the 50-yard dash. They are equally matched—identical in every way. For the purpose of this scenario, imagine that both athletes are the same person with different attitudes.

When we hope, we are open to new ideas and possibilities. We are flexible in our thinking.

One of the athletes is focused intensely on the race. He must win, and is confident that he will. His life, work, and existence are focused on this single moment, for which he has been training for three years. He has won numerous races of this distance against stiff competition. He "expects" a positive outcome.

The other athlete has a hopeful attitude. He believes in himself and his ability. He has confidence in his training. He will give it his best shot. He is hopeful for a positive outcome, but he knows that this is just one race in the course of life.

Who do you think is more likely to win? If I were a gambler, the first athlete would appear to be a better bet. Why? It is human nature to bet on the person who appears to have more invested. The desire to succeed is greater, as is the fear of failure. Thus, the will to win is stronger.

But is it possible for athlete number two to win? Absolutely! The history books are replete with stories of the perceived "underdog" team who are hopeful for a victory and who, much to everyone's surprise, manage to pull it off. Somewhere in the world of sports, it happens every season—and it is part of what makes following sports so enjoyable.

On a different note: Which athlete would I rather go to dinner with? Number two, by a long shot. If I were in a position to help athletes, I would definitely give number two my attention. This is an extremely important concept in career development. In a world in which people are increasingly self-absorbed and preoccupied with their own problems, it is difficult to inspire others to want to help you. It becomes nearly impossible when you expect them to help you or give you opportunities. You might be one of the world's brightest talents, but when you expect certain things, you appear even more self-absorbed than everyone else.

What makes the hopeful attitude so attractive? Think about this. We watch the underdog step up to the plate, knowing that they know they are the underdog but still have the courage to face the impossible. This attitude is compelling. Their hope strikes a universal chord in us. Hope is not only appealing to others, but a far healthier attitude for your career. Try keeping those high expectations in check and developing an attitude of hope; it is essential to inspiring people who are in a position to help you and your career.

Please e-mail any comments, questions, or ideas for future columns to careerfile@juilliard.edu.