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Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected

21/03/2016
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“If you do not expect the unexpected you will not find it, for it is not to be reached by search or trail.” Heraclitus

Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected - Life marches on full of unintended surprises

Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected – Life marches on full of unintended surprises

But life inevitably throws us curve balls, unexpected circumstances that remind us to expect the unexpected. I’ve come to understand these curve balls are the beautiful unfolding of both karma and current. Carre Otis
You have to take risks. We will only understand the miracle of life fully when we allow the unexpected to happen. Paulo Coelho

Why Expect The Unexpected?: Most of us spend our lives creating plans of action to help us achieve X and complete Z, however, life isn’t so linear and, from time to time, even the best plans can go awry. It is in those unexpected moments that we truly learn who we are and how flexible we are to just “go with the flow.”  It is in times of unexpected outcomes that we must maintain an equipoise between what we want and what is. Like it or not, life throws us gold nuggets and curve balls and while one will make us gather our friends and family for a huge celebration, the other will make us curl up in a ball and wonder what went wrong. Nothing. Nothing went wrong … life unfolds at it’s own rhythm and we can’t always predict that there will be logical outcomes to our actions. Life’s curve balls are lessons on the path and they are dished out to all of us; some with greater obstacles to overcome. How you endure and overcome it depends on your character, your métier, and your willingness to push through and learn the lessons.

Over the weekend, I was listening to my favorite radio station, (NPR), when the host told a story that got me thinking about how life is not only full of unexpected events, but that these events serve as pearls of wisdom reminding us to stay both flexible and faithful, and know that the final outcome will be for our growth.  Sometimes, unpleasant things happen to us and we waste enormous energy debating why X = Y. We forget that while human behavior might have some impact on events, the final outcome isn’t always what was intended or expected.  As a wise sage told me, Once you have addressed the matter in a calm and reasonable manner, step back, reflect on the event and be observant. Watch the event as it unfolds and trust that a far more powerful intelligence is at play. Instead of rushing to fix, change, rework an unexpected situation, pay attention and learn from it. Here’s a modified version of the story below: We will call it by a simple name and I’d love to hear your feedback on this story and the others on this post.

A Story: THE UNEXPECTED – Group A & Group B.
A company CEO and CFO gathered their employees and divided them into two groups. The top performing stars were assigned to Group A and sent to the company penthouse while the rest of the employees were assigned to Group B and sent to the cafeteria. Members of both groups were speculating about the reason for the division and what news they were going to receive. Naturally, the cafeteria crew expected the worst while the top performers knew they were going to get raises, bonuses and promotions. What really happened?
The CEO and CFO conferred in an office and each headed to one of the rooms. The CEO went to the penthouse to meet with his top players while the CFO headed for the cafeteria to speak with the other team members. It was a difficult conversation on all counts because not only was the company losing money, they were being forced to downsize to stay afloat. The CEO, wringing his hands, looked his team straight in the eyes and said: “You’ve been the best and I know you’ll be a great addition to any organization but, we no longer have the resources to keep you here.” With that statement, he informed them that they were being let go and they should go pack up their personal effects.
The CFO walked into the cafeteria where many present were drinking their 3rd and even 4th cup of coffee, as they braced themselves for what they were sure was BAD NEWS! He greeted them and thanked them for their effort during a challenging time of transition at the company. He then informed them that: “We have been losing money and to stay vital, we have decided to downsize a percentage of our staff. Everyone will have to buckle down and do double duty as we regroup our efforts to keep our company alive. We know you can do the work.” With that, he informed them that their jobs were safe. Many shed a tear as they were not expecting to hear such news. Their jobs were safe for now and they knew that staying flexible and getting the job done would be needed in the days to come. Work smart, stay flexible and … expect the unexpected.

“To expect the unexpected shows a thoroughly modern intellect.” Oscar Wilde

Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected - Life marches on full of unintended surprises

Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected – Life marches on full of unintended surprises

Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected - Life marches on full of unintended surprises

Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected – Life marches on full of unintended surprises

If you so choose, even the unexpected setbacks can bring new and positive possibilities. If you so choose, you can find value and fulfillment in every circumstance. Ralph Marston
Sometimes we let life guide us, and other times we take life by the horns. But one thing is for sure: no matter how organized we are, or how well we plan, we can always expect the unexpected. Brandon Jenner

Why Must We Stay Motivated & Flexible about the Unexpected?: In our rush to judge others and their choices, we might forget that our actions don’t always create the intended outcome. Sometimes we do things that give us a second chance at life or that lead us down a path we never imagined. All of these actions motivate us to behave in a certain way and the final outcome can be life saving, life destroying and/or offer us a huge positive surprise. We don’t always know but, we can stay flexible and trust that our actions lead to outcomes that enrich our lives and help others to learn too. I read a very engaging article over the weekend and I invite you to read the 8 stories shared… None of the folks planned or expected the outcomes they got but they were second chances that made a difference for them.

Stay motivated and learn from the Zen Story, below, of the two egotistic debaters… Our egos can be our biggest obstacles and so we must stay vigilant too. Ego? What has ego got to do with it? When people succeed, they often claim all credit for their success and when they fail, they blame others for their failures. We forget that no man is an island unto himself, that the “self-made” man is a fallacy, and that success is not always meted out the way we expect. We must maintain a spirit of equilibrium and remember that on the road to success, we were helped by both obstacles and other good souls. READ: Westchester Magazine: “Meet 8 People Who Got A Second Chance”

A Story: The Unexpected – Two Giant Egos In Peril
Two Zen debaters, reputedly the best in all of Japan, were to meet in verbal combat in Edo at the great celebration honoring the birth of Buddha. For this event, scholars flocked from as far away as Hokkaido to marvel at the brilliance of these teachers.
During the competition, first one master would prevail on one day and on the next day the other master would counter, until by the end of the fourth day they were even.
Each of these masters traveled with retinues of supporters, who cheered their champions and pampered them like minor princes.
During the night of the fifth and final debate, the two great adversaries parried and thrust at each other, to the delight and cheers of their separate retinues.
As each master would score a telling point, he would puff himself up and walk in a circle to the applause of his supporters. All of which was fine until a great explosion ripped through the hall, an explosion so great that all the lanterns and candles were blown out. When order and light were restored, it was discovered that both of the masters had exploded – making a huge mess over the altar and ceiling and even those sitting in the front rows.

The details for Motivation Mondays are below. Join in! The themes for February and March 2016 are:

02/01 – VALENTINE’S DAY–
02/08 – CHINESE NEW YEAR –
02/15 – PRESIDENTS DAY – third Monday of month –
02/22 – PAIN –
02/29 – LEAP YEAR –

03/07 – 8 International Women’s Day –  3/1-31, Women’s History Month
03/14 – 13 Daylight Savings Begins at 2:00 a.m., 15, Ides of March, 17, St. Patrick’s Day, –
03/21 – 19 International Earth Hour –  20 International Day Of Happiness, Palm Sunday, Spring (Vernal) Equinox, –
03/28 – 23 Purim begins at sundown, 25 Good Friday, 27 Easter Sunday

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More Below!
“If history repeats itself, and the unexpected always happens, how incapable must Man be of learning from experience.” George Bernard Shaw

Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected - Life marches on full of unintended surprises

Motivation Mondays: Expect The Unexpected – Life marches on full of unintended surprises

True stability results when presumed order and presumed disorder are balanced. A truly stable system expects the unexpected, is prepared to be disrupted, waits to be transformed. Tom Robbins
Writing is a journey of discovery because until you start, you never know what will happen, and you can be surprised by what you do – expect the unexpected! Mini Grey

Why Expect The Unexpected?: Sometimes, we think that we can predict what is best for others when in fact, we can’t. Each of us come into the world with skills and talents that we can put to use or let flounder … it is up to us. Others can encourage us but, the motivation to act must come from us and from within; therein lies the unexpected outcomes that sometimes baffle us. Why did X get Y and Z got nothing? Life offers a measure of twists, turns and doses of the unexpected. If we stay flexible, faithful and grateful, we can weather any storm. We get to choose!

A STORY: The Businessman & The Fisherman
One day a fisherman was laying on a beautiful beach, with his fishing pole propped up in the sand and his solitary line cast out into the sparkling blue surf. He was enjoying the warmth of the afternoon sun and the hope of catching a fish.
About that time, a businessman came walking down the beach trying to relieve some of the stress of his workday. He noticed the fisherman sitting on the beach and decided to find out why this fisherman was fishing instead of working hard to make a living for himself and his family.
“You’re not going to catch many fish that way,” said the businessman, “You should be working harder rather than laying on the beach!”
The fisherman looked up, smiled and replied, “And what will my reward be?”
“Well, you can get bigger nets and catch more fish!” was the businessman’s answer.
“And then what will my reward be?” asked the fisherman, still smiling.
The businessman replied, “You will make money and you’ll be able to buy a boat, which will then result in larger catches of fish!”
“And then what will my reward be?” asked the fisherman again.
The businessman was beginning to get a little irritated with the fisherman’s questions. “You can buy a bigger boat, and hire some people to work for you!” he said.
“And then what will my reward be?”
The businessman was getting angry. “Don’t you understand? You can build up a fleet of fishing boats, sail all over the world, and let your employees catch fish for you!”
Once again the fisherman asked, “And then what will my reward be?”
The businessman was red with rage and shouted at the fisherman, “Don’t you
understand that you can become so rich that you will never have to work for your living again! You can spend all the rest of your days sitting on this beach, looking at the sunset. You won’t have a care in the world!”
The fisherman, still smiling, looked up and said, “And what do you think I’m doing right now?

Source: Zen Antics All stories via Goodweb.cn

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Positive Motivation Tip: Life is full of twists and turns and doses of the unexpected… stay flexible, faithful and grateful.

Motivation Mondays is open to anyone who wishes to share a motivational quote, photo, personal challenge or a post that encourages others to start the week on an upbeat note.
Basic Instructions: Each week, I will have a motivation word to help us create a response. (See listed words for the months above/below)
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PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS: Stories via Zen Stories on Goodweb.cn  Quotes via BrainyQuotes, All Photos: Unexpected via Pixabay

Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet

from → Global Events, Motivation Mondays, Positive Advice, Posts & Photos 2016
159 Comments leave one →
  1. Lucid Gypsy permalink
    21/03/2016 11:50 pm

    We would have a healthier society if there were more people like the fisherman!

    Reply
  2. Izabela permalink
    22/03/2016 4:17 am

    I used to make plans but things never worked out how I wanted them to be. I guess life has to flow according to its rhythm.

    Reply
  3. 조이 Czjai (@RebelSweetHrt) permalink
    22/03/2016 4:23 am

    I agree, life is full of surprises! And for every new undertaking, I would tell myself to expect the least but hope for the best. 🙂

    Reply
  4. Sage permalink
    22/03/2016 5:22 am

    The best things that have happened to me have been unexpected… moving abroad, marrying an Englishman, quitting a six figure job to go freelance. I’ve come to love the unexpected!

    Reply
  5. Liz Mays permalink
    22/03/2016 5:42 am

    Ha! What a satisfying ending to the fisherman’s tale!

    Reply
  6. Aziel Morte permalink
    22/03/2016 6:11 am

    Life is full of un-expected surprise

    Reply
  7. Traveling Blogger permalink
    22/03/2016 7:10 am

    This is so true! I often think very linearly, and it is really the unexpected that happens. I need to be more flexible in my life.

    Reply
  8. jmanandmillerbug permalink
    22/03/2016 7:15 am

    I agree you need to expect the unexpected! Sometimes it turns out better than you planned!

    Reply
  9. top5life permalink
    22/03/2016 7:15 am

    Life is very unpredictable. Expecting the unexpected makes one prepared for all circumstances.

    Reply
  10. Annie @ It's just my life... permalink
    22/03/2016 7:36 am

    I try to always expect the unexpected because life is full of corners and turns.

    Reply
  11. EBL Food Allergies permalink
    22/03/2016 8:20 am

    There is some good advice in this post. It’s not always easy to react the right way.

    Reply
  12. Because I'm cheap permalink
    22/03/2016 8:42 am

    I love that story of the businessman and the fisherman. I want to be the fisherman. Too easy to become like the businessman.

    Reply
  13. Mia Foo permalink
    22/03/2016 8:59 am

    in life, the only constant is change. fully agree that we should live our lives by expecting the unexpected!

    Reply
  14. Lexie Lane permalink
    22/03/2016 9:01 am

    I love the idea and words of your post. Such a motivational post. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  15. Become More permalink
    22/03/2016 9:32 am

    I absolutely love what you have talked about here! especially when you said, “If we stay flexible, faithful and grateful, we can weather any storm. We get to choose!” I agree 100% with this statement! It is so important for us to be focused on what we want to accomplish and we can only do that if we are flexible, faithful, and grateful! That is the key to success in this life. Thank You so much for sharing!

    Reply
  16. Become More permalink
    22/03/2016 9:33 am

    Reblogged this on Become More Today and commented:
    I agree 100% with this! It is so important for us to be focused on what we want to accomplish and we can only do that if we are flexible, faithful, and grateful! That is the key to success in this life.

    Reply
  17. Amy Jones permalink
    22/03/2016 10:41 am

    Yes, that’s right right we never know whats around the corner waiting for us.

    Reply
  18. Kylee Cooks permalink
    22/03/2016 10:44 am

    “…life is not only full of unexpected events, but that these events serve as pearls of wisdom reminding us to stay both flexible and faithful that the final outcome will be for our growth. ”

    What a great quote from the radio host. Definitely something to ponder.

    Reply
  19. Amber Easton permalink
    22/03/2016 10:50 am

    That Kokopelli is gorgeous. I always get motivated by all of your profound insights. It seems like I stumble upon your site exactly at the right times.

    Reply
  20. Melissa Bernardo permalink
    22/03/2016 11:35 am

    Always expected the unexpected! Great post!

    Reply
  21. Heather permalink
    22/03/2016 11:36 am

    I think its all about adapting, but even when adapting, there is always more change. Once you adapt, it might change again and again. Being able to see that there is nothing you did wrong and working around those curve balls I think build character. I really needed to be reminded of this as I often think its me that is failing…when it just is what it is.

    Reply
  22. Michelle Mink (@lovemichelle89) permalink
    22/03/2016 11:36 am

    the unexpected is what keeps life exciting. i thought the group in the cafeteria would have been fired but i am glad it worked out well for them

    Reply
  23. Idaintyit permalink
    22/03/2016 11:54 am

    I have to be honest I am not great at dealing with things that go wrong but I have learnt not to expect things as much. The worst one I had was when I was pregnant the midwife kept going on and on at me to write a birth plan which I never saw a point in doing but I did it anyway and wrote the things I wanted. As I suspected the birth did not go to plan (as they never do) and not one single thing from my birth plan was followed lol

    Reply
  24. Stephanie Pass permalink
    22/03/2016 12:54 pm

    We’ve had a lot of unexpected things happens to us. I try to remind myself when things are going too good that we can’t forget that the unexpected is always around the corner.

    Reply
  25. Nova permalink
    22/03/2016 1:00 pm

    I believe that the true surprise is when you unexpected something without even thinking that will happen

    Reply
  26. Anamika Ojha permalink
    22/03/2016 2:32 pm

    Loved this piece of writing and collection of some beautiful quotes. Thanks for sharing it with us!

    Reply
  27. Ana Fernandez permalink
    22/03/2016 3:18 pm

    i always expect the unexpected so I would be ready for everything!

    Reply
  28. patricemfoster permalink
    22/03/2016 3:49 pm

    When I expect nothing things seems to turn out for the better. That’s why I try to remain flexible… Go with the flow who knows we can’t predicts!

    Reply
  29. Amy permalink
    22/03/2016 4:25 pm

    Most days in my military life bring the unexpected. It’s better to be prepared for sure!

    Reply
  30. Krystle Chaney Cook permalink
    22/03/2016 4:30 pm

    Unexpected things tend to throw me for a loop. I get way too stressed but I have to go with the flow sometimes.

    Reply
  31. Suzanne Rudge permalink
    22/03/2016 6:05 pm

    We can definitely learn and grow from embracing the unexpected and not running from it. So many great love stories would otherwise not be.

    PS: I love the photo of the smiley face person! Too cute!

    Reply
  32. suchi permalink
    22/03/2016 6:29 pm

    very motivating! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  33. Kristen permalink
    22/03/2016 6:54 pm

    What awesome motivation- like always. Have a good week!

    Reply
  34. momknowsbest15 permalink
    22/03/2016 8:20 pm

    I love unexpected surprises. They can be good.

    Reply
  35. firsttimetravel permalink
    22/03/2016 8:58 pm

    I’ve heard the story of the businessman and the fisherman countless times and I love reading it again because it is my favorite story. Always, my prayer when I wake up is to tell God, “Lord, surprise me today!” I’m a person who plans and wants things to be in order but I also sometimes appreciate when there are unexpected things that can bring a smile to me.

    Reply
  36. Beth@FrugalFroggie permalink
    22/03/2016 9:03 pm

    Such an interesting post. Great points to think about and remember.

    Reply
  37. Lisa Rios permalink
    22/03/2016 10:03 pm

    That wonderful quote from Paulo Coelho sums up my life style as I love taking risks & I always know unexpected things are going to be around the corner. What ever happens it is important to stay positive as you cant expect everything to happen as you wish.

    Reply
  38. LifeAsAConvert permalink
    22/03/2016 10:19 pm

    I am always expecting something positive to happen. I keep myself away of what could happen and I have a realistic mindset, but I think hoping for the best keeps me sane.

    Reply
  39. mskathykenny permalink
    22/03/2016 11:26 pm

    When we do not expect and things happen, then it becomes a very pleasant surprise. When we expect and it does not happen, then it becomes a major heartache.

    Reply
  40. mhaan.a-ds permalink
    23/03/2016 12:22 am

    Such a great story and inspiring too! I hope I could be the fisherman someday.

    Reply
  41. jmgoyder permalink
    23/03/2016 1:32 am

    Your blog posts amaze me in their detail and examples. In the past, including the recent past, I have handled the unexpected very badly. Thank you for your ongoing wisdom.

    Reply
  42. Shub RainbowDiaries permalink
    23/03/2016 2:22 am

    So true! You really cannot predict what’s going to happen the very next moment. Better to be always prepared for the unexpected and worst.

    Reply
  43. phyliciamarie permalink
    23/03/2016 2:31 am

    Whoa. those two zen masters literally exploded from too much ego. haha.
    Anyway i really loved the story about the CEO, CFO and the two groups, because it shows you how nothing is as they seem.

    Reply
  44. JessDC permalink
    23/03/2016 3:36 am

    Good read! Interesting stories. I have learned something as I am a believer in the law of attraction. 😀

    Reply
  45. Anosa permalink
    23/03/2016 4:29 am

    Life sure knows how to throw the unexpected in the mix and I agree we usually did nothing wrong it is just how life unfolded and how we deal with that is what later defines us. Great post

    Reply
  46. Franc Ramon permalink
    23/03/2016 4:50 am

    It’s the unexpected that keeps life interesting. I guess if we’re ready for the unexpected then we’re in for a great ride.

    Reply
  47. travel blogger permalink
    23/03/2016 4:54 am

    I think flexibility is one of the most important characteristics to get through life. Things never happen the way you plan, and you have to learn to jump back up and keep going.

    Reply
  48. Jeypi Kyu permalink
    23/03/2016 5:03 am

    expecting the unexpected is a goodway to stay motivated in life. whenever you think of only expected things to happen, you get discouraged when unexpected things happen. great post! 🙂

    Reply
  49. kellyharrold permalink
    23/03/2016 5:05 am

    I love this! We can’t always have control over things and it’s good to let go and see where life takes you, it’s all a part of the fun!

    Reply
  50. Fred Erick (FredExperience) permalink
    23/03/2016 5:31 am

    Oh, i really enjoyed the stories! i love stories like these. My most favorite is the story abou the fisherman and the businessman. That’s so funny.

    Reply
  51. Valerie Robinson permalink
    23/03/2016 7:31 am

    I love the idea of expectation. I believe if you out good things out into the universe, better things will come back at you full circle.

    Reply
  52. royaltyinreality permalink
    23/03/2016 7:43 am

    I’m pretty resistant to change and the idea of the unexpected sends me into a tailspin. While many may think I’m a little crazy, I try to navigate situations by considering all possible outcomes. This allows me to be prepared for the worst case scenario and then relieved when that doesn’t happen.

    Reply
  53. 3xhcch permalink
    23/03/2016 7:45 am

    The unexpected is the spice of life. We cannot live always on expected results. If anything can go wrong, it will — one time or the other. We should know how to deal with the unexpected. But if there should be a rare complication, then we should learn from it.

    Reply
  54. Sunshine Kelly permalink
    23/03/2016 8:20 am

    I kind of get used to it to be ready for any unexpected things happen. Sometimes is good but at times its no so good. Take it and move on.

    Reply
  55. Euge Nia permalink
    23/03/2016 8:28 am

    Love these amazing quotes! I would add another great quote by Mini Grey “Writing is a journey of discovery because until you start, you never know what will happen, and you can be surprised by what you do – expect the unexpected!” So true! Thanks for sharing such a motivational post! Great job!

    Reply
  56. BluKatDesign permalink
    23/03/2016 8:32 am

    I always tell my husband “go with the flow” but I like “expect the unexpected” better 🙂

    Reply
  57. Makenzie permalink
    23/03/2016 8:43 am

    I love this article! When I think of the topic I always think of “Finding the best in everything!”

    Reply
  58. Mary Johnson permalink
    23/03/2016 9:14 am

    I can honestly say that I’m motivated by the unexpected every day. I just wish that the unexpected would not cost so much or stress me out hehehe

    Reply
  59. Erinn Sluka permalink
    23/03/2016 9:43 am

    I love how you find these relative stories. They are always so motivating to read

    Reply
  60. EBL Food Allergies permalink
    23/03/2016 10:03 am

    Motivation is hard on some days especially when I have a lot going on.

    Reply
  61. Melissa Bernardo permalink
    23/03/2016 10:55 am

    We can never predict what is going to happen. We need to expect that anything is possible!

    Reply
  62. alison permalink
    23/03/2016 11:42 am

    I really need this reminder today because I have been feeling extremely inflexible as the tough things have come around. But I like the idea of staying flexible and faithful and being able to move as needed. Thanks for the examples in real life, too!

    Reply
  63. parentingpatch permalink
    23/03/2016 1:30 pm

    Life is full of the unexpected. I thought that I would be living in NYC for the next two years, but now I am heading back to Illinois. The move is definitely unexpected so soon!

    Reply
  64. fivemarigolds permalink
    23/03/2016 2:42 pm

    If we try to force every hour and day to our rigid plans, we will be very unhappy people. I’ve always loved that story about the fisherman and business man!

    Reply
  65. Ana De Jesus permalink
    23/03/2016 2:57 pm

    As usual you have a fascinating perspective of the world and great food for thought. I like the concept of the Zen story.

    Reply
  66. Ronnie Epsi permalink
    23/03/2016 3:53 pm

    Wow, I would be so bummed if I worked so hard and ended up getting fired because I was too ‘expensive’ to keep on board. You really do need to ‘expect’ the unexpected in life.. never take anything for granted.

    Reply
  67. Lori Felix permalink
    23/03/2016 4:01 pm

    I have learned many times that life is unpredictable and you really do need to expect the unexpected. Even with careful planning, things will not go always go as planned but it can still be great.

    Reply
  68. Shivansh Chaudhary permalink
    23/03/2016 5:10 pm

    Indeed one has to be prepared for the unexpected!

    Reply
  69. Michelle Mink (@lovemichelle89) permalink
    23/03/2016 5:14 pm

    i love that story about the fisherman! really the only way to go through life is to expect the unexpected as we never know what is coming next

    Reply
  70. thezafragroup permalink
    23/03/2016 5:26 pm

    Great post. Sure is important to expect the unexpected rather than act like the inevitable will never happen. Always good to be prepared for whatever could happen. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  71. Chelsea L. permalink
    23/03/2016 5:33 pm

    Everything you have write here is right, most of the time when we are in a situation that requires our time and love we often tell our selves do not expect any thing in return. but the truth it never happen and we got hurt because of that.

    Reply
  72. Kandi permalink
    23/03/2016 5:58 pm

    My husband is in a career where we have learned to embrace the unexpected! It is kind of a must with him!

    Reply
  73. Dawn McAlexander permalink
    23/03/2016 8:48 pm

    I enjoy the pictures you chose for this Motivation Monday. I have learned to always expect the unexpected so that I can be prepared for anything!

    Reply
  74. Yona Williams permalink
    23/03/2016 8:58 pm

    Sometimes the unexpected things that happen in our lives are such a welcome surprise, while other times, they can really knock you down. I deal with the unexpected much better than I did in the past.

    Reply
  75. delainemyles permalink
    23/03/2016 9:53 pm

    Wow this is a beautiful post. I since of late started to develop that mind set to expect the unexpected due to previous let downs. Now things happen and I am barely suprised.

    Reply
  76. Rosey permalink
    23/03/2016 10:30 pm

    I found out the unexpected today. Not in the positive way you’re talking about here, but it was a missing puzzle piece. Though it was surprising, and not at all what I ever expected to hear, it was also a missing jigsaw puzzle piece that came and gifted me with being able to have full closure. Expecting the unexpected now, for all good things!

    Reply
  77. Bhushavali permalink
    24/03/2016 1:22 am

    Right now, life is throwing wierd balls at me and I’m going with the flow and I’m happy. I think life/time/God knows which path to lead us in…

    Reply
    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      24/03/2016 2:17 pm

      wishing you well… stay strong.

      Reply
    • Dawn McAlexander permalink
      25/03/2016 8:23 am

      I hope life looks up for you soon. I’m sure, as you said, that you are on the path you should be on.

      Reply
      • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
        25/03/2016 9:41 pm

        Good to see you here Dawn. It’s been a while. I’m not writing about myself. But I hope life looks up for each and every one of us all soon. TY! <3

  78. ahuosee permalink
    24/03/2016 3:08 am

    I like the point “Why Must We Stay Motivated & Flexible about the Unexpected”, i have on so many occasions looked at these through my own lenses and even tried to help based on what i assumed the problem was. Every time, my “help” backfired, i would be extremely perplexed or even annoyed with the “helpee”. I slowly learned to take a step back, understand how the intended outcome may get skewed and help myself see things through other people’s lenses too

    Reply
  79. Terri Ramsey Beavers permalink
    24/03/2016 4:13 am

    There have been many times in my life when I didn’t expect the unexpected and should have. A great topic.

    Reply
  80. Chubskulit Rose permalink
    24/03/2016 6:18 am

    “Expect the Unexpected” I love that attitude. My husband is always like towards everything and it works.

    Reply
  81. Karissa @WithOurBest (@withourbest) permalink
    24/03/2016 7:22 am

    I feel like I don’t expect the unexpected. But maybe if I did life would be more interesting!

    Reply
  82. solaonitiri permalink
    24/03/2016 9:14 am

    Looks like I’m going to be motivated for a long time to come! Thanks for your words of encouragement, they’re coming at the perfect time in my life.

    Reply
  83. Theresa Pickett permalink
    24/03/2016 12:25 pm

    What an inspirational post! I love your Motivation Mondays. They’re great reminders to me.

    Reply
  84. Leke Awonuga permalink
    24/03/2016 4:15 pm

    Thank you Elizabeth for this piece for people to re-evaluate their expectations about humanity and life. Your Mondays nugget, I will look out for.

    Reply
  85. Eileen Mendoza Loya permalink
    24/03/2016 8:05 pm

    So inspiring! It is nice to read through your blog to find the strength to carry on in life. There are so many people with worse problems and we must still be thankful for what we have.

    Reply
  86. Camesha | Mama Motivator permalink
    24/03/2016 10:08 pm

    I think my greatest lesson in expecting the unexpected has come from having kids. I’ve learned to go with the flow and look for the good.

    Reply
  87. Sylvia Jules Kal permalink
    25/03/2016 6:59 am

    Always expecting then unexpected puts us in a place of excitement and newness….also its such fun. Some think its a place of anxiety, depends on the mindset. Love this post Very Inspirational 🙂

    Reply
  88. Pooja Kawatra Gupta permalink
    25/03/2016 8:48 am

    It does happen many times when your mind accepts the unexpected but your heart is not ready to accept anything unexpected.

    Reply
  89. Marielle Altenor permalink
    25/03/2016 8:55 am

    As a mom and a business owner, expecting the unexpected is a way of making sure you are prepared for anything. You may not be able to predict every twist and turn of events but that’s part of life.

    Reply
  90. Arisa permalink
    25/03/2016 9:28 am

    Best to embrace the unexpected because it can sometime be a blessing in disguise despite it appearing as a negative outcome at that moment of time

    Reply
  91. JamericanSpice (@Jamericanspice) permalink
    25/03/2016 12:27 pm

    I do try to be open to unexpected.
    It’s helpful to not be rigid when it comes to life so that life doesn’t knock you out!

    Reply
  92. Claudia Krusch permalink
    25/03/2016 7:34 pm

    There have been many times in my life when I didn’t expect the unexpected and should have. Love your post!

    Reply
  93. Mrs. D permalink
    26/03/2016 8:50 am

    I always have that mentality “Expect the Unexpected” whether good or bad. We can’t predict the future. After all, it’s part of LIFE! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  94. Shiv Blogs permalink
    26/03/2016 2:41 pm

    Indeed one has to be prepared for the unexpected! Personally life has thrown so many curve balls at me that I prefer not anticipating and just playing one ball at a time!

    Reply
  95. Jason Panuelos permalink
    26/03/2016 10:57 pm

    I think we have to get used to the fact that nothing could ever 100% go our way. It’s anticipating change that’s what makes us wiser 😀

    Reply
  96. Peachy A. permalink
    30/03/2016 8:11 am

    I love the story with the businessman and the fisherman.

    Reply

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