I’m used to managing expectations. Jumping over the “gap” between expectations are reality is the easiest way to make a great impression at work. I find the “gap” concept to be an easy way to visualize something that isn’t a material thing.

But expectations aren’t the only thing that can fall into a gap. Enthusiasm can, too.

For instance, today I went to a printmaking class. I’ve been sputtering around trying to get started doing art again (a few sketches here, a design project there), so when I saw a class offered nearby, I jumped at the chance. I was thrilled to have a built-in opportunity to practice printmaking, and am happy to finally have bits of ink under my fingernails again.

And while I wouldn’t expect anybody to fall over themselves praising my first printed art piece (I’m no longer a child), I’ve noticed other people’s excitement about my project is nowhere near my own personal excitement levels.

I’m quite excited, if you couldn’t tell.

Others – friends, my mom, Instagram – respond positively, but they clearly aren’t “hearts in my eyes emoji” like I am.

That’s okay. It wasn’t their experience, it was mine. I was the one who did the work, and rediscovered something I love. It’s my plans and schemes and interests that matter (to me). Other people’s reactions are secondary.

Now, as I think about this, there are definitely scenarios where the other person’s reaction would be of vital importance. If I were getting married, I would want to share my future husband’s level of excitement. A gap there would probably spell disaster.

For my situation now, an enthusiasm gap means nothing. I’m not asking anybody to do this project with me, and I’m going to continue to explore printmaking because it makes me happy.

Yet still, I find myself thinking – what would it take to bridge the enthusiasm gap? Expectations is one thing. That’s just a matter of one’s mental model stacked up against reality. But enthusiasm – that taps into how someone feels about something, and that’s harder to influence.

Maybe this is why selling art is so difficult.

HmmmMMmmmm.