The Joy of Anticipation

When was the last time you waited for something … and were happy about it?

We often think of waiting as an obstacle, something that stands between us and whatever it is we’re anxiously anticipating. As it turns out, waiting is essential to happiness.

A Dutch study concluded that people who had a vacation to look forward to were measurably happier than people who didn’t. While that conclusion may seem obvious, it demonstrates that the anticipation leading up to an event is key to infusing that event with joy and happiness.

My own family has discovered this to be true. One of our favorite summer activities is camping. The great outdoors are popular here in Colorado, so we plan our trips months in advance. And then the real fun begins. All through winter and spring, the excitement slowly builds. By the time summer gets here, the whole family is bubbling over. We’ve learned that the anticipation leading up to our summer getaways is part of the fun.

If a special occasion is on your horizon and anticipation is building, don’t rush your feelings. Settle back and enjoy the wait. Expectancy is key to bringing that moment alive with purpose, joy, and wonder.