A few days ago I reluctantly went out to mow the lawn.  It had rained the previous night and the grass was wet.  From past experience I knew what happens when I mow the wet grass.  The wet grass gets stuck under the lawnmower, clogs the blade, preventing it from turning and causes the lawnmower to stop.  This is a frustrating process because this event usually happens more than once.

Mowing the Lawn of Misguided Expectations

Even though I normally don’t bother trying to mow the lawn when the grass is wet, I decided to take the risk and do it anyway.  As I started the routine, I noticed something.  Although the grass was wet from the rain the night before, it was only damp.  Much to my surprise, the grass was not clogging the lawnmower causing it to shut off, but rather it was working just fine.

When people enter situations, they generally anticipate the outcomes based on their prior experiences.  However, it can be those very experiences that limit our ideas and thoughts of what is possible.

So when you go to a networking event or meet someone new, and they share with you their occupation, goals, business, or dreams, do not immediately judge how helpful they may be to you, or you to them.  I encourage you to spend the extra time required to get to know the person on a more personal level.

As in the case when I was mowing the lawn, I thought I knew what the result was going to be, based on my experience.  But, I was wrong.  Similarly, don’t allow misguided expectations eliminate the possibility of making a great connection which may ultimately lead you to the right employment opportunity, and possibly even a super friend.

Jim Horrell is an inspirational writer who has an active interest in social (LinkedIn, twitter, and blogging), and a background in Information Technology.  Jim believes by sharing who we are as people we can make a positive difference in the lives of the people around us and the world.  Jim is seeking new opportunities to make a difference in writing, social media, or application programming.  If you are interested in sharing ideas, experiences, or thoughts with Jim, please contact him via e-mail at jrhorrell@live.com or blog comment.