plans NEVER go according to plan
Issue 138 - June 9th, 2023
“Planning is important, but the most important part of every plan is to plan on the plan not going according to plan.” - Morgan Housel
Certainty and predictability hold a special place in the hearts of humans, yet our reality is far from certain. We dedicate significant time and effort to planning and predicting the future, only to be left disappointed when things don't unfold as expected. However, if we can adopt a different perspective and acknowledge the surprises that life brings, we can find greater happiness in our day-to-day experiences.
In various domains, including real estate and other businesses, derailments occur regularly. During my time as a real estate agent, I found myself perplexed by the use of "PENDING" signs on yard signs when a house went under contract.
It seemed counterintuitive to tempt fate and invite misfortune.
The truth is, real estate deals are never truly DONE until the transaction is complete, and the money is literally in the BANK.
Between the signing of a contract and the official closing, countless obstacles can arise, leading to frustration and disappointment for all parties involved. Rather than prematurely celebrating a sale, I've learned the importance of reserving judgment until the deal is truly finalized. Over the years, I've witnessed a multitude of unexpected events unfold on closing day, reinforcing the notion that nothing should be taken for granted until the transaction is securely completed. By adjusting our mindset and reframing our expectations, we can approach these situations with greater resilience and emotional balance.
When it comes to life's lessons, simplicity often holds the most power. Each day, I remind myself that the best way to plan is to anticipate the inevitable deviations from our intended path. By incorporating a margin of safety and allowing room for error in all our endeavors, we can cultivate greater happiness and personal growth in the long run. Embracing the uncertainty of life enables us to navigate its twists and turns with grace, finding contentment in the midst of unpredictability.