why?

Why would you choose to aim high, expect low?

Why aim "high"?

To set a target! A high target that as you look up, figuratively, you feel that you are such a far cry from it that it...pushes you, you know. It pushes you to strive for that one target you have set your eyes on, it gives you motivation, it drives you to do better. For that's your aim, that's the aim that you have set for yourself in the first place, therefore you must make sure that you'll do whatever it takes to hold on to that one promise you've made for yourself. It ain't easy, surely, it ain't going to be easy. But if you think about it, really take a moment to think about it - what is? C'est la vie, non?

Why expect "low", then?

To save yourself from all kinds of unpredicted outcomes. Someone once told me that 生活是个未知数, that it will not be a mere smooth journey, surely you'll have to brace yourself for bumps and turns that will catch you off-guard, that will put you off of your comfort zone, before finally dropping you off at your dream destination. With a low expectation, when the outcome is unpleasant, saddening, disappointing... You'll be prepared for it, because a part of you have always seen it coming, it's when it's coming that keeps you in suspense. Therefore, even as you fall, it wouldn't hurt as much. I would not choose to see this action as a sign of weakness, nor an act of over-protectiveness, but one of wisdom and prudence, as well as the ability to admit your flaws and allow an even bigger room for maturity - without feeling discouraged, deflated, demotivated. So keep it low, keep it slow. You'll get there. One day.

So why?

This is why.

Till then, x.