A Climb

Monday, January 06, 2025

Almost every day, I think about planning for that day and estimating my needs for the week ahead. I designed a form to facilitate planning and printed copies of it to make planning easy. But I have the continuous problem of my head having a stubborn side that resists (or refuses) to create and follow a plan.

I insist on working in my head and keeping time and action needs there, but that’s sloppy. Sometimes, forgetting when and where I’m supposed to be forces me to show up on the edge or late.

Why, oh why!

I did some research. It taught me that some people have a high need for closure. They prefer certainty and predictability; they are more likely to engage in planning. They gain comfort from having a clear sense of direction and control. (Note: I’ve always assumed myself as such an individual.)

My explorations teach that others may be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty and are less inclined to make detailed plans. These folks seem more adaptable to change and may enjoy the element of surprise. (Note: I’d rather not admit that I might be one of these people.)

I have always disliked ambiguity, uncertainty, and similar conditions. I’ve also always been confident about knowing myself–and well. Reflecting on my resistance to making plans and armed with new insights, I wonder if I’ve known and understood myself well enough.

Pros and cons: Planning reduces stress, increases efficiency, and improves goal attainment. Spontaneity promotes present-moment awareness, enhances creativity, and increases flexibility. An ideal situation would be having the skills to activate both sides of the coin.

Ultimately, an individual’s best way to find comfort is by understanding and embracing one’s personality and cognitive style. A way to resolve planning and spontaneity issues is to find a suitable balance between them.

That points me toward working more to learn about and embrace my unique aspects. That would help me adapt more willingly to the typically daunting challenges of planning and achieving.

Dear Friends: Gaining more insight guides us into fewer tripping-ups. Diana