Dwight Fletcher | What’s keeping you from expecting better?

Your expectations about your work matter. If you want to thrive, you must let go of the negative expectations that shape your reality. To do that, however, you must first identify the source of those beliefs. Why does your mind default to negative outcomes instead of expecting the best?

Is there an emotional wound from your past influencing your response? For example, you may have been embarrassed in a situation and developed a limiting belief. In response, you might have made an inner vow, saying, “I will never …” — a promise to yourself that ultimately keeps you trapped. To break that vow, you must first name the emotion and bring it under your control, making it your servant rather than your master. Often, fear of failure is at the root. Take that fear to God in prayer. Failure is something we all experience, but we can rise from it.

First, identify the source of the negative expectation and repent of that belief system. This can look like a prayer: In the name of Jesus, I repent for relying on my own strength instead of Yours. Lord, forgive me. I renounce the vow that ‘I will never …’ or ‘I will always …’ (name the vow). I break the power of these words in my life and place everything under Your authority and protection. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

As believers, we must understand that God uses adversity to build us, not to destroy us. James 1:2–4 (NIV) reminds us: “Consider it pure joy … whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” Perseverance leads to maturity and completeness.

Consider also the examples of Daniel and Joseph. Though they faced far greater challenges, God used their adversity to advance them. Their faith, hope, and attitude enabled them to respond wisely.

To thrive and achieve lasting success at work, we must hold on to hope that God is working things out in our favour. If you are a believer, He is with you. Seek Him in prayer and He will guide and strengthen you.

When negative expectations arise, break their power by inviting the Holy Spirit to replace them with faith-filled thinking. Submit your thoughts to God and exchange them for His truth, often found in Scripture or through His personal guidance.

God gave Joseph dreams of leadership so that he could hold on to hope in difficult times. Likewise, you need a word from God that the Holy Spirit can bring to mind when challenges arise, encouraging you to persevere.

To truly thrive at work, develop an overcoming mindset rooted in hope in Christ. View problems as challenges to be overcome, not as endings. See them as opportunities for growth. This perspective fuels energy, anticipation, and determination — qualities that drive action and problem-solving.

Trust in God, and expect better in your work and your life.