Planning ahead, in whatever task we do, can help smooth the way and prevent problems from arising later on. Confucius, the Chinese philosopher rightly said, “A man who does not plan long ahead will find trouble at his door.” It is said that “Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.” Chances are, if you speak to anyone who has been successful they will tell you that planning ahead was a vital ingredient in their formula for success.
Planning ahead can be a very effective way to stay on top of things and not get too stressed. Feeling in control of your life is the foundation of stress management – and whilst we can’t control for everything – planning ahead helps us to achieve a balanced life – with time for work, relationships, relaxation and fun.
Planning ahead can enhance our performance, make us more productive and ultimately help us to become more effective in what we do. Mark Sanborn – a writer in this field – claims that “Thorough preparation creates tremendous performances.”
Planning ahead helps us to be proactive rather than reactive – and take the right course of action when faced with difficulties and challenges. We can also save money by planning ahead – as tickets can often be cheaper when bought early on and cheap deals usually book up in advance.
Of course, we don’t just make a plan and leave it at that. Effective plans need to be reviewed and updated regularly. Our plans evolve over time – and can help us to stay on course and get to our destination. Now might be a good time to begin to plan ahead (or review your current plan). This may be for the new school term, for Christmas, a holiday next year or maybe a career change. Whatever your goal is – follow these golden rules of planning and watch your plan fall into place:
- Know where you’re going – what are you aiming for?
- Set specific goals, tasks and intentions
- Create measurable milestones
- Break down large tasks into smaller more manageable chunks
- Set timeframes and deadlines
- Create a visual representation of your plan
- Set daily actions to help accomplish your task
- Stick with your plan and don’t give up
- Revise & update if necessary
- Realise your goal.
Many of us harbour limiting beliefs and negative habits which block us from success. In next week’s issue we will address the skill, tools and discipline needed to overcome our psychological barriers to success.
SouthWest Counselling Centre Killarney provides affordable professional counselling to children, adolescents adults and couples – both at its Killarney Centre (Lewis Road) and at Kenmare Family Centre. info@southwestcounselling.ie.
Kerry LifeLine provides FREE counselling and support to anyone feeling suicidal or bereaved through suicide. info@kerrylifeline.com
To make an appointment call 064 6636416/064 66364100
SouthWest Counselling Centre is a not-for-profit organization. All funds raised through fundraising go directly to service provision
