To Plan or Not to Plan – That Is the Question

When it comes to time management, there’s no right or wrong answer. After all, who is someone else to tell you how to administer your time? However, we do listen to the advice and suggestions of time management masters to see if they can help us achieve a set goal. That’s why there are hundreds of various styles of planners out there, all claiming they can help you reach your goal.

So, we pose the question: to plan or not to plan?

The Argument for Not Planning

Many successful individuals had no plans or explicit goals, yet somehow their path took them to successful careers. Do you really think Mark Zuckerberg sat down for years planning how Facebook was going to become what it is today? Probably not.

Not planning can be liberating for those who don’t do well with set instructions. If you’re unsure where you want to go, not having a plan can help you be open to different opportunities. Without a plan, it’s easy to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. One could say not planning allows you to see things from afar without the pressure that it needs to be completed by a deadline.

You have no restraints.

The Case for Planning

Humans are excellent procrastinators, and without a plan, it can be easy to wander without purpose. Even people who don’t plan have goals that need strategies to make them happen. Otherwise, they’re just dreaming. If you are for planning, don’t try to have a plan outlined for your whole life – that’s unrealistic. But, having small plans here and there tailored towards a specific goal can be helpful.

Keeping some sort of intentions to reach a goal, a plan has scientific evidence behind it. One study looked at the effects of planning, which often involve forming intentions towards a goal and found that those who did were more effective in pursuing their goals than those with no plans or intentions.

Your Choice

Like everything, it comes down to your choice. While you don’t have to live by a plan, having some planning in some areas of your life can prove helpful. Choose whatever feels right for you and your goals. And as always, if you don’t know what to do next, don’t be afraid to reach out for help, others might be able to offer advice.