What is the Difference Between Hope and Expectation?

The main difference between hope and expectation lies in the level of attachment and certainty to the outcome. Here are the key differences:

• Hope: Hope is a desire or wish for an outcome with some uncertainty about what will actually transpire. It is an anticipation of a future event, and it does not die when it goes unmet. A life of hope allows for motivation to succeed and keeps trying even if faced with failure.
• Expectation: An expectation is a strong belief that things will be or should be a certain way, and it is attached to the outcome. It is an assumption that something is going to happen, whether it is true or false. Expectations can influence our behavior, attitudes, and how we see the world.

In summary, hope is a flexible and alive force that responds to all situations, while expectation is a strong belief attached to a specific outcome. Hope admits reality and allows for other outcomes, whereas expectation predetermines the future and can lead to disappointment when not met. It is generally healthier to have hope rather than expectation, as it encourages a more open and adaptable approach to life's challenges.

Comparative Table: Hope vs Expectation

The difference between hope and expectation can be summarized in the following table:

Hope is a desire for a specific outcome, while expectation is a strong belief that things should be a certain way, with an attachment to the outcome. Hope is based on faith in the unseen and unmeasurable, whereas expectations are based on what can be seen and measured. Expectations can lead to disappointment when reality doesn't match up to the expectation, whereas hope provides positivity and a less intense emotional experience.