What if I had a goal but left it open as to how I would get there? Stopped planning every aspect and just did what was the next best thing in front of me?
I feel like that is so different from what I’ve done in the past. I planned everything and had a roadmap. And this year, so far, has taught me that, “Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.” — Mike Tyson.
The death of my dad was like a punch in the mouth—unexpected and throwing me off balance. Everything changed quickly. And what used to comfort me no longer does. Every time I reach for the comfort of a plan (planning makes me feel safe—I was a project manager for many, many years), I pull myself back. Planning no longer feels like what is best. It feels too rigid and constrained and doesn’t leave room for the unknown.
I am not saying planning is bad—it isn’t. I am, though, exploring new ways to reach my goals that allow me more flexibility. What does feel good now is stating my goal and then taking small steps to get there. Yes, I still have a strategy, but I let the how evolve through taking simple steps.
Losing my dad taught me that life isn’t as prescriptive and defined as I thought it was. Life isn’t a box-checking exercise. Life is about letting go of what is expected and leaning more into what evolves and aligns with my soul.
What if getting metaphorically punched in the mouth this year is exactly what I needed? What if it was what I needed to shake me from my slumber and start really chasing my dreams and living a life authentic to me? What if the plan I had was no longer serving me, and I finally saw it and did something about it?
What if?
