As a former, attention-seeking, young girl,

I learned that intelligence induces a gold star,

Impressive physical feats are followed with an ice cream swirl,

And helping others prompted a prize from the cookie jar.

However, I optimistically predicted that it would all end in a standing ovation.  

Instead, I gained expectations.

Apparently, always performing with success

Makes others anticipate

And your capabilities, they reassess

That excellent work is all you should generate.

Now I have no choice but to feel that there is obligation

To meet those expectations.

Because a poor job

Means termination,

A long sob,

And deflation.

So here I am,

Battling expectations.