Why it’s important not just to plan but to create a backup plan.

I love to read. And I write a lot about reading. In January I wrote about both the 41 books I read in 2023 and the 24 books I have already picked out to read in 2024. I also like to read about writing. And I like woodchucks who could chuck wood.

I am currently reading a great book titled The Psychology of Money. Which I highly recommend to everyone. But you don’t have to take my word for it. The book has a 4.7 star rating on Amazon with 47,000 people weighing in. Which is more readers than there are people in the biggest city in Vermont, where I grew up. (Oh, but we had cows…)

The Psychology of Money is packed with rich insights and reminders related to wealth and happiness. Here is one of my favorite gems from the book.

Planning is important, but the most important part of every plan is to plan on the plan not going according to plan.

-Morgan Housel

This line really resonates with me. Because one of my core beliefs is that the secret to success is a good plan B.

Planning helps you get the most out of nearly every aspect of life. You should plan your career, investments, family, vacations, workouts, dates, and Me-time. (Note: You should read me-time as you-time, meaning the time you plan for you, not the time that you spend with me, Adam Albrecht.)

However, things go wrong in my life all the time. It’s almost as if Chaos Theory is using me as a test pilot. So I am always thinking about backup plans, contingencies and safety nets. And because I am already thinking of backup plans, I am not floored or ruined when my Plan A falls apart. I am just thankful that I have a Plan B, C and D. And you should too.

Key Takeaway

Develop great plans for all important aspects of your life. Plan on greatness, happiness, wealth and success. But also expect the unexpected. And plan for multiple ways forward. Variables will change. Adaptability and resilience must be your constants.

*If you know someone who could benefit from this message, please share it with them.

+For more of the best life lessons I have learned check out my book, What Does Your Fortune Cookie Say? from Ripples Media.

Originally published at http://adamalbrecht.blog on February 4, 2024.