To Plan or Not to Plan
Planning has been my second nature, a habit I’ve honed over 15 years as a productivity coach.
The last six months have been very challenging.
In 2024, a year of beauty and grace, I unexpectedly spent three months in Belarus, visiting the hospital daily—sometimes twice. I witnessed life’s fragility, spending precious time caring for my sick mom, an experience I’ll always treasure. While my mom’s recovery is a priceless gift, the trip left me emotionally and physically drained. Returning to the U.S., I needed two months to recover, struggling to focus or plan as I once did.
For someone whose career revolves around helping others plan, not being able to do so for myself was a humbling experience. It brought me to embrace agility, meet myself with kindness, and accept where I was.
To Plan or Not to Plan?
My answer is YES—to plan, and do it mindfully. Planning works when it aligns with where you are at, honoring your current state with kindness and awareness.
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn
Planning, like life, is about adapting and staying present with the ebb and flow. From my two decades of experience, here are five insights about planning to keep in mind:
1) Get to Know Yourself:
Understanding yourself is the key to planning that truly works. Identify your values, strengths, and priorities to create meaningful and achievable goals. Treat planning as a way to declutter your mind and align your actions with what genuinely matters to you. Self-awareness transforms planning from a task into an empowering ritual.
2) Separate True Goals from Noise:
Take the time to reflect on what truly matters to you versus goals shaped by societal expectations or external pressures. True goals will feel meaningful and energizing, while others might weigh you down. Give yourself permission to release pursuits that no longer resonate, allowing space for what genuinely aligns with your aspirations.
3. Build Planning as a Habit:
Like any skill, effective planning takes practice. Start with small steps and experiment with different methods—whether it’s a weekly check-in, a digital app, or a handwritten journal. As you find a system that works for you, planning evolves into a grounding ritual that organizes your thoughts and helps you stay on track. Consistency is key, and over time, it will feel as natural as breathing.
4. Stay Flexible and Kind:
Even the best-laid plans can shift with life’s unpredictability. Approach planning with intention but hold space for flexibility. Celebrate your progress, however small, and offer yourself grace when things don’t go as planned. A kind, adaptive mindset ensures that planning supports your growth rather than adding unnecessary pressure.
5. Remember the Big Picture:
You are both significant and fleeting—a vital force in your own journey and a part of the grand universe. Planning offers the opportunity to embrace this complexity, honoring your goals while keeping perspective. Take your plans seriously, as they shape your path, but approach yourself and your process with humility and lightness. By holding this balance, you can stay grounded in your responsibilities while maintaining a sense of wonder and joy for life’s unfolding possibilities.
A Simple Practice to Get Started
If planning feels daunting, start small. This 7-Minute Guide to Mindful Planning is an excellent place to begin. Even 7–15 minutes can help you gain clarity and connect with yourself.
Recently, I spent 10 hours spread over several days planning my next three months. The process brought immense clarity and allowed me to meet myself with compassion.
I wish you the same: a habit of planning that fosters connection with yourself in a loving, intentional way.
If you’d like to join our Annual Planning Party on January 19, 2025, it’s a great opportunity to plan, reflect, and celebrate the year ahead.
