"But that's not the way it's supposed to be!" is a common thing we say when our expectations fall short. It happens to all of us. Some members of myHIVteam have found the practice of "allowing and letting be" in the midst of a trying to be a way to minimize anxiety or heaviness.

Mindfulness experts suggest a few ways that we can notice -- not push away -- how we feel during difficult moments. There are physical responses we can notice (heaviness in the shoulders, tightness in the chest), and we should also take note of our emotional responses to disappointment (blame, self-doubt, exasperation). These can be opportunities to realign our expectations and extend grace to ourselves.

Here are recent conversations from myHIVteam:

• "I'm learning that in order for me to spread joy and love to others I must first learn to love myself and be grateful for this beautiful life."
• "Be encouraged there is a long journey ahead and you will feel better than the average person."
• "I will be strong throughout my long journey. I will let the seas take me where they will like me to go, and I will return with abounding riches from faraway lands."

Share how you respond when things fall short of your expectations in the comments below or directly on myHIVteam.com.