Hi gnarlydorkette,
For me I wanted to get back to where I was with hearing aids before I lost my residual hearing suddenly in 2005. That was achieved within probably 2 or 3 months after switch on of my CI. Now I am slightly ahead in that I can use the phone much more easily. Before with my hearing aids it was a big struggle and I barely used the phone as a result.
I also wanted my independence back. I really hate relying on others and having to wait around at their convenience. I just want to do things immediately and not have to struggle at the shops or use a pen and paper which is time consuming. I didn't want to have to avoid hearing people because I was afraid that I would not understand them. So it has been good to have my confidence back 
Among deaf adults results with a CI will vary considerably because we vary considerably. CIs aren't a cure for deafness but another way to hear when we do not benefit from hearing aids.
