Having a plan puts us in charge of where we want to go as opposed to circumstances in life aimlessly pushing and pulling us around. We all know that even when we do plan…things don’t always go to plan, but that’s NOT a reason to not have a plan. Even if plans do need to change, by having set up a plan in the first place, it keeps our minds focused on the goals and having focus on our goals will allow us to make adjustments to our plan when we have to in order for us to get back on track. We may have to change direction and the change in direction may require more effort or cause a delay, but by knowing where we plan to go, we can find a way to get there. It’s like taking a long road trip where we may encounter detours, traffic, weather conditions and of course the unexpected rest stops along the way, but no matter what gets thrown at us we manage to get there. We need to think of our life plan and financial plan in the same way.
How Planning Creates Success
To have success, you have to have goals. And in order to achieve those goals, you need to create a plan on how you’re going to get there. Now we all know that even though you create a plan, it won’t always go smoothly. The thing to keep in mind is it will require patience, perseverance, discipline and determination just to name a few. Notice how “giving up” is not on the list…just sayin’.
A helpful technique for creating a plan is to start with the end in mind. In other words, you need to imagine what you want your future to look like and set goals starting with the long-term goals first and working your way back to your short-term goals. It’s actually a technique you use more often than you realize just on a smaller scale, like planning a party or a weekend get-away.
“Success doesn’t just happen. It’s planned for.” – Anonymous
When you break it down that way, it can make goal setting a little easier. Once you have a plan, then you have to execute…take action! All the planning in the world won’t bring results, so you can’t allow yourself to get stuck in a perpetual cycle of planning. You won’t be able to think of every possible challenge you’ll face along the way, so you can’t let fear keep you from getting started.
Paralysis of analysis is a sure way to keep you from making progress toward your vision, so don’t fall into that trap. But with a clear goal and a good plan you’ll be able to make the necessary adjustments along the way and reach your destination. Don’t worry about how long it takes for you to reach it as long as you’re making progress. And remember, a dream without a plan is just a wish!
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