while you're busy making other plans

“Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans”

This John Lennon quote reveals a powerful idea on management and getting things done that we have touched on before. We often bemoan plans because things never turn out how we, well, planned.

So the obvious next question is why spend so much time planning?

Because plans may be relatively useless … but planning is invaluable. Planning is what gives our action legs. When we have planned something out there is a powerful change.

We go from doing… to doing something. The intent and direction that come from planning is impactful and vital. And most important of all – it prepares us to react and move when (inevitably) things do not go exactly accordingly to plan. Planning allows us to respond – because we are moving with intent.

So when you are thinking through goals, and how you get there, and your days and weeks and what you will do. Take a moment and realize that the act of planning it out is as important and meaningful as the plans themselves. Do not fall to the temptation to short circuit this aspect. Plans change, planning allow us to succeed.

We talk about several concepts that at a surface may seems to be at conflict

• The basis of good morale, is good discipline
• The key to dynamic changes and improvement is standards for operating
• The requirement of flexibility is a solid structure

And I wanted to add a fourth concept: Things never go as we plan…so planning is invaluable. It allows us to think through, be ready and to act with direction and purpose.

So recognize the power of goals – both because they allow us to focus and force us into the powerful act of planning.

And to end with two quotes

“Those who plan do better than those who do not plan even though they rarely stick to their plan” - Winston Churchill (British Prime Minister)

“Plans are worthless. Planning is essential.” - Dwight D. Eisenhower, general and president (1890-1961)