About this quote

Letting go of expected outcomes keeps small losses from turning into long, heavy setbacks. When you stop counting on a specific result, you protect your mood and can respond clearly to what actually happens. That doesn't mean you stop trying — it means you separate effort from entitlement and focus on what you can control. Try one habit: before an important moment, name one realistic outcome and one you can live with, then act as if either could happen.

When to use it

• After the promotion went to someone else at work, I took a breath and told myself that line by Pope so I could write a calm thank-you note instead of reacting angrily.
• Before waiting on exam results, I said to my study group, 'I'm keeping expectations low so I can focus on the next study plan,' and then I reviewed where I messed up.
• When our family trip was canceled at the last minute, I reminded my partner of that saying and we rearranged a simple weekend instead of stewing.
• After being benched in the big game, I remembered Pope's line, stopped replaying what I thought should happen, and used the week to train harder.