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Minute With John Maxwell - Upfront Expectations

Have you ever found yourself frustrated because something didn’t go as planned? Maybe a project at work fell short of its goal, or a personal relationship took a sudden turn for the worse. In most cases, the root cause can be traced back to expectations. When expectations are unclear or unspoken, it’s easy for misalignment and misunderstanding to occur.

John Maxwell, a leadership expert, often emphasizes the importance of being upfront about expectations. As leaders, whether in business or personal life, our success hinges on this principle. Why? Because when expectations are communicated clearly, everyone knows where they stand, what is required of them, and what success looks like.

Here are three key reasons why upfront expectations matter:

1. Clarity for All

Setting expectations upfront provides clarity. Think of it like setting up a GPS for a road trip. If everyone has the same destination in mind, it's easier to know the direction you're headed. Without clarity, people make assumptions, and those assumptions lead to confusion, frustration, and often, failure. By clearly communicating your goals, deadlines, and standards, you eliminate guesswork and provide a clear path forward.

2. Accountability

When expectations are communicated upfront, they become the standard by which progress is measured. Everyone knows the target, and accountability naturally follows. When expectations are vague or not communicated, it’s difficult to hold anyone accountable because no one is sure what success looks like. Whether it’s team performance, project delivery, or relationship growth, clear expectations allow for better feedback and improvement.

3. Trust and Respect

Upfront expectations foster trust. People feel valued when they understand what's expected of them and why. When leaders communicate clearly and consistently, it builds respect. There’s no guessing game or fear of hidden agendas. Teams, partners, and even customers appreciate transparency, and that trust is what strengthens long-term relationships.

How to Set Upfront Expectations

  • Be Specific – Avoid generalities. For example, instead of saying “I need this done soon,” say “I need this done by 5 PM on Friday.”
  • Discuss the Why – Help people understand the bigger picture. Knowing the "why" behind a task or goal boosts motivation and commitment.
  • Check for Understanding – Don't just assume everyone is on the same page. Ask for feedback to ensure your expectations are fully understood. Follow Up – After setting expectations, check in regularly. It shows you're engaged and provides an opportunity to make adjustments if necessary.

    • As John Maxwell teaches, leadership is about influence, and influence grows when expectations are upfront, clear, and consistent. Whether you’re leading a team or navigating personal relationships, being upfront with expectations sets the stage for success, accountability, and trust. It’s a simple, powerful tool that every leader should master.

    Next time you find yourself frustrated by a misunderstanding or missed deadline, ask yourself: Were my expectations clear? If not, it’s a great opportunity to realign and reset for the future.

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