Anticipation is an emotional state linked to directing attention toward what is to happen in the future. It appears when we are waiting for something, foreseeing an event or preparing for a possible development of a situation.
It can combine with curiosity, hope, excitement, but also with tension and uncertainty. Its intensity depends on how important what we are waiting for is to us and how we assess the possibility of our predictions being fulfilled.
In the body there may appear arousal, focus of attention, muscle tension, faster breathing, a feeling of energy or difficulty staying still.
Anticipation helps us prepare for the future, plan action and engage in what is important to us.
Similar:Expectation, Awaiting, Hope, Readiness, Prospect
