Do you know my favorite question to ask my team?
"What should I expect from ______? Should I anticipate anything in particular?"
Whether it’s a new project, an event, an online meeting with a new associate, or a quarterly check-in—I don’t like surprises. I also know I’m not the best at handling sudden crises, so I prefer to be prepared. I really appreciate it when my team gives me useful insights. For example, they know I get anxious around people, so they gave me a heads-up that I’d need to share one fun fact about myself during a warm-up session. Something as small as that makes a difference—a little token of consideration.
As someone who’s always two steps ahead, I’ve learned that managing my expectations helps me manage my anxiety. Being prepared is invaluable, and having clarity? Even better. If you tell an anxious person, “Just be present, don’t think about the future,” it only proves you don’t understand what it’s like to be trapped in that cycle. Anxiety is a storm, a turbulence that’s hard to escape once you’re caught in it.
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| I wish I could ride a tsunami like Ponyo. |
That’s why I always appreciate even the smallest acts of consideration.
UB loves putting me on the spot (I think as a nudge), but at the same time, she always adds, "whenever you're ready,"—which, honestly, I deeply appreciate. T^T I know the expectations are there, but they let me have my own pace.
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They’re doing it really well—not just because it’s their job as coaches and mentors, but because they genuinely walk the talk. And I notice that. I see it. And honestly, I think this applies beyond just work. So many of these insights are useful in real life. That’s why I’m writing this down—because I know I’ll need to reread it. As humans, we forget. And sometimes, the best thing we can do is remind ourselves.
It all comes down to two things: preparation and thoughtful support.
Being prepared isn’t just about knowing what’s ahead—it’s about managing expectations, easing anxiety, and giving yourself the best chance to succeed. And when the people around you make the effort to help you prepare, even in the smallest ways, it shows real consideration.
But just as important is the way support is given. Pushing someone forward is one thing, but letting them move at their own pace while knowing they’re not alone? That’s the kind of support that actually makes a difference. And honestly, that’s something worth remembering—not just at work, but in life. Tq UB & AR.
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