Skip to content

Choose Quote by Sarah Manguso

“Choose one: chronic disappointment or lowering your expectations to the point where nothing can disappoint you. But consider also that you might miss feeling disappointed.” quote by Sarah Manguso
Download Open image
““Choose one: chronic disappointment or lowering your expectations to the point where nothing can disappoint you. But consider also that you might miss feeling disappointed.””

Sarah Manguso

About This Quote

Choosing between constant disappointment and low expectations creates a trade‑off: avoiding pain may also dull the capacity to feel any emotion deeply.

In simple terms: Low expectations protect from hurt but can numb joy.

Key Takeaway

Balance realistic hopes with openness to feeling.

Themes

expectations disappointment emotional risk balance resilience

Mood

thoughtful introspective

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • career planning
  • personal growth
  • mental health

Key Concepts

psychology risk management emotional intelligence

Questions to Reflect On

  • Are you sacrificing depth for safety?
  • What level of expectation feels authentic?
A Different Perspective

Too low expectations can lead to apathy; too high can cause chronic pain.

3.4 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Sarah Manguso

Explore all 61 Sarah Manguso quotes

More Choose quotes

Browse all 3,851 Choose quotes