• Optimistic expectations motivate us. If you don't think you have a chance to succeed, you are less likely to try. But this only applies where effort can translate into success, such as studying and expecting a good grade. However, if you hope your favourite sports team will win, it will not help them win.
• Expecting a future experience to be positive could reduce worry. For example, a student who expects a good grade can feel confident and less stressed. But if you expect a positive outcome, you risk disappointment if you fail.

Only expecting good things to happen is not enough. We also need to be willing to put in the effort to make it happen. The combination of optimism and action help drive motivation to achieve our goals and persist when facing challenges.

Having positive expectations is not the same as fantasising. Fantasising can make you overconfident, leading to performing worse and lowering your motivation. But believing that success is possible will help you succeed.