“A goal without a plan is just a wish.”
~ Antoine de Saint-Exupery
I’ve tried going without a plan, tried just letting the universe take me where it will, let life happen spontaneously and live each moment in a “Be Here Now” fashion. I failed miserably at it. It made me tense and anxious and robbed me of enjoying each moment because I just couldn’t find my footing. I like to think that I’m not terribly rigid, that I can adapt easily enough. Still, I do best when I spend a few minutes planning for the day or week ahead. I find that having a plan does not rob me of enjoying life or those spontaneous moments of fun but rather roots me in my goals and dreams so that I can enjoy the winds of life without anxiety.
For me it doesn’t have to be this rigid or boring spreadsheet, though don’t get me wrong I can rock a good spreadsheet. I think I mostly get comfort out of putting pen to paper and just seeing my thoughts and ideas concretely. Once the plan is written down, I can adjust or make changes as the need or whim arises, but having it down gives me a place to turn too when I get overwhelmed or lost in a busy day.
Having it written down also forces me to realize when I might be biting off more than I can chew. Looking at the plan lets me revisit priorities and see just what is too busy for the simple life we’re trying to lead here at Two Frog Home. I’m going to stick to my planning tendencies and keep it fun with things like markers and construction paper.
Are you a planner or more a spontaneous personality?
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Definitely a planner and on paper, not the computer. I sit it on the kitchen counter next to my calendar.
Definitely a planner. Sometimes I get busy and forget to do things like meal planning, and then I find myself flailing around needlessly trying to figure out what to do–I’m not great at winging it. My husband is pretty good at figuring things out on the fly, though, so we make a good team.
PLANNER! I just had a chat with a friend/coach about how I need structure to feel comfortable. It makes me think of this blog post about having a framework for creativity (though I think it applies to productivity as well): http://coachcreative.com/abigcreativeyes/2011/07/03/killing-the-fear-of-routine/
I’ve just found your blog and enjoyed the PLANNING post. I find that with a plan even when I stray a bit it’s not too far. Without a plan my projects turn into something of a train wreck. I look forward to reading more of your post this evening.