Does my boss have unrealistic expectations?

Unrealistic expectations are goals or standards that are unattainable or impractical given the current circumstances, resources, or constraints. Here’s a detailed look at what constitutes unrealistic expectations and how they can manifest in the workplace.

Characteristics of Unrealistic Expectations

Overly Ambitious Goals

There are two characteristics that identify unrealistic expectations — work that is beyond your capabilities or that requires excessive speed to complete.

Beyond Capabilities: Expectations that require more than what is feasible for you with your particular skills, experience, and resources are unrealistic expectations. For example, expecting a new employee to master complex tasks without adequate training is beyond that employee’s abilities and unreasonable to expect. Expectations that do not take into account limitations in budget, time, or manpower may also be involved. Requiring an employee team to deliver high-quality work without resources is unfair.
Requiring Excessive Speed: Demanding results within an unreasonably short timeframe that does not account for the complexity or scale of the task is an unrealistic expectation. For instance, expecting a comprehensive project to be completed in a week when it typically takes several would be an unreasonable request.

Unreasonable Standards

A boss who has unrealistic expectations may additionally have unreasonably high standards. A Gallup report from 2023 showed that 41% of workers experienced daily stress at work, impacting their mental health and wellbeing.

Perfectionism: It is unrealistic to demanding flawless performance or outcomes. Even the best assistant will make mistakes. For example, expecting zero errors in a complex software system where attention to detail is highly required.
Unfair Comparisons: Comparing performance or results to unrealistic benchmarks or industry standards without considering individual or organizational differences. That would be like comparing a small startup’s growth to that of a well-established multinational corporation. A boss with unrealistic expectations may expect the best because of a lack of empathy with your situation.

Examples of Unrealistic Expectations In the Workplace

In the Workplace

Unachievable Deadlines: Requiring an assistant to complete a major project within a time frame that doesn’t account for the scope of the work and any necessary approvals.
Overload of Responsibilities: Expecting an assistant to handle multiple high-priority projects simultaneously without additional support or resources.

Addressing Unrealistic Expectations

In order to address a boss who has unrealistic expectations of you and the rest of the team, you must communicate clearly, set realistic goals for yourself, adapt where needed, and advocate for yourself.

Communicate Clearly

Discuss Feasibility: If you encounter unrealistic expectations from your boss, engage in a constructive discussion to clarify what is truly achievable. Provide evidence or examples to support your case.
Negotiate Adjustments: Work to adjust deadlines, goals, or resource allocations to more realistic levels. Propose alternative solutions that align better with current constraints. Ultimately you’ll be saving time and money.

Set Realistic Goals

Break Down Objectives: Set smaller, manageable goals that contribute to a larger objective. This makes the overall project more achievable and allows for adjustments along the way.
Consider Resources: Align expectations with available resources, skills, and time. Ensure that goals are practical given the constraints. You may have to communicate these reasonable goals repeatedly.

Monitor and Adapt

Track Progress: Regularly monitor progress towards goals and be open to adjusting expectations based on new information or changing circumstances. Be honest and upfront about your progress.
Stay Flexible: Be willing to revise expectations and adapt to unforeseen challenges or opportunities. Demonstrate a willingness to pitch in.

Educate and Advocate

Raise Awareness: Educate your boss about the implications of unrealistic expectations and advocate for more reasonable and achievable targets. You are your best advocate!
Promote Realistic Expectations: Encourage a culture of realistic goal-setting and evidence-based planning within your organization or personal network. Discuss your work load openly and honestly.
Get more strategies here for dealing with a difficult boss.

Conclusion

Unrealistic expectations are those that do not consider practical limitations, resources, or human factors, leading to unattainable or impractical goals. They can manifest in various ways, including overly ambitious targets, unreasonable standards, and a lack of consideration for constraints. Addressing unrealistic expectations involves clear communication, setting achievable goals, monitoring progress, and advocating for realism. By understanding and managing unrealistic expectations, you can foster a more productive and balanced approach to achieving goals in both personal and professional contexts.