Expectations directly determine how we experience the world.

Expectation activates the brain in the same ways as the real thing (similar to visualizations). Expectation of reward (surprises even more so) release dopamine. Important to avoid bad expectations because they cause dopamine crash. People perform better when happy.rR1 People may be inclined to offer unrealistic expectations which should be avoided.



  1. David Rock, Your Brain at Work: Strategies for Overcoming Distraction, Regaining Focus, and Working Smarter All Day Long, 1st ed (New York: Harper Business, 2009). (See notes.)