How To Plan

Books, seminars, even entire university degrees are based on this verb plan. Its huge. Its vital. But it doesn’t have to be complex.

“A blurred image of lights that say "FOCUS."” by Stefan Cosma on Unsplash

You have a goal, and now the question is, how do you get there. Here’s how you can start:

1. Clarify what you want to achieve
   This is absolutely the most important aspect of any plan. If you don’t know where you want to go, you can’t get there. Dedicate time thinking about the result you are looking for, in detail. Often, the details make all the difference!
2. Break it down
   If my goal is to climb Mt Kilimanjaro, I’d better take more than a Twix with me. It’s going to most probably take 5 days, and that means 5 days of water, food, materials, and protection from the elements. By breaking down the road into steps (even if there are gaps in your thinking) you can start to better visualise your plan and see it come to life.
3. Learn to count
   Everything costs something. And, if my experience if any indication, what you expect something to cost typically costs more! In fact, my coach Grant Cardone (check his stuff out) recommends preparing your mind by 10x-ing the effort, time and money you think something will take.
4. Check if the reward is worth it — if not, set a bigger goal (or stop!)
   When you achieve your goal, and you look back at the effort, and you consider what you said “no” to, and you look back at what you learned, is the reward big enough to warrant the journey? What if you only achieve half of the expected reward. Is it still enough to start? If so, go!
5. Get a team around you.
   Trying to climb your mountain can be a daunting task. You will need at least one of two teams — a team that holds you accountable and a team that will help amplify your efforts!

So to recap: Set a Goal; Plan; Act!!!