Could you picture your partner spending his/her day focusing all of his personal energy on you? He'd be continuously looking for feedback. He'd have set enormously high expectations for caring for you, sacrificing his own needs to care for you. does this sound exciting to you? It might work for a while, but in the long run, you'd fet bored and he'd crash from exhaustion.



Where's the intrigue? You are far too free-spirited to be watched this closely. And, without asking, how could he possibly know what is truly important to you?

This focused energy is what many of us believe we must give our patients, teams, clients and customers. We live this lie daily. "They need me to take care of them and their every need." Those who rely on you need you to provide a specific service, not sacrifice yourself. This fact applies to both parents and to CEOs.

How much focused energy is enough? Lately, I've heard these statements: I get worn down by my clients; expectations for me. There's nothing left for me at the end of the day." "My clients expect me to perform miracles. The problem is that in trying so hard, I make mistakes, which frustrates me, causes guilt and resentment toward them."

Who is setting these expectations, you or your customer? Assuming what another needs from us is dangerous in any relationship. This causes all or nothing thinking, leaving no room for creativity, experimentation, even fun in your relationships. "Either I am all things to my clients or they'll leave me for someone who is. I will have failed."

Is it important to exceed our customer's expectations? Absolutely, but not at a cost to you! The mastery is in creating a balance between their needs and your own.

In reality, is there anyone in your world whom you expect to sacrifice for you? Do you want a service provider to have sleepless nights over you? Do you want anyone to assume what you need? Is that their role or is it yours to communicate this? If they are in doubt, wouldn't it be prudent to ask you rather than assume?

Why are we afraid to ask the question: "How can I best serve you?" "What part of my service can be improved upon?" "Each year I like to reevaluate the service I provide. How can we make more money for all involved?" Make your client accountable for helping you grow and become better. Take the pressure off yourself.

I can assure you that their expectations of you are not nearly as high as the ones that you've set upon yourself. The struggle is in your mind, not in their unspoken word. Even if there are no suggested changes, you've certainly communicated that you care.

Examine how you are using your energy this week. Do you focus it upon unrealistic expectations? Do you save some of that energy for yourself? How can you best serve 'you' in each interaction? Perhaps choose your battles? Perhaps be very clear on the outcomes you seek with certain individuals or situations? Allow your learning to come, ask questions, and listen to the answers.

Enjoy your discoveries and have an outstanding week!