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For people who live on expectations, to face up to their…

“For people who live on expectations, to face up to their realisation is something of an ordeal. Expectations are the most perilous form of dream, and when dreams do realise themselves it is in the waking world: the difference is subtly but often painfully felt.” quote by Elizabeth Bowen
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““For people who live on expectations, to face up to their realisation is something of an ordeal. Expectations are the most perilous form of dream, and when dreams do realise themselves it is in the waking world: the difference is subtly but often painfully felt.””

Elizabeth Bowen

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Expectations create fragile dreams; confronting reality can be painful because the gap between hope and truth hurts.

In simple terms: Dreams based on expectations can cause pain when reality differs.

Key Takeaway

Align expectations with reality to reduce disappointment.

Themes

expectations dreams reality disappointment psychology

Mood

thoughtful hopeful

Type

motivational reflective

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • relationships
  • personal goals
  • mental health

Key Concepts

cognitive dissonance hope vs. truth emotional resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How realistic are your expectations?
  • What can you do when dreams fail?
A Different Perspective

Expectations may limit growth and cause suffering.

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