What's Your Planning Style?
by Ircel Harrison
Benjamin Franklin is credited as saying, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!” Franklin did not always hit the spot with his pithy sayings, and we might argue with this one, but most of us are expected to make some kind of plans for the future. How do we go about doing that?
People approach the future in different ways. In her research, Annie McKee found that people tend to use three approaches to thinking about the future: goal-oriented, direction-oriented, and action-oriented.1
Some people set specific objectives and work toward them in a structured and linear fashion. These often adopt SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Specific) to actualize their planning. Although goal-oriented planners focus on very specific goals and outcomes, they are not always tied to the pursuit of a dream or fulfilling a mission which motivates them to achievement.
Other people use a direction-oriented approach in thinking about and planning for the future. Although they know the general path they wish to pursue, they stop short of getting too specific. They have an intense sense of purpose and mission and a willingness to be flexible regarding specific goals. In terms of both their own life’s desires and the world in which they live, they see the big picture. These people tend to be highly attuned to their environment and are good at spotting opportunities that they can leverage in pursuit of their dreams or a vision. They adapt easily to changes in the environment, but stay true to an overarching set of principles, values, or a vision.
Meanwhile, a surprising number of people really do not think too much about the distant future. These action-oriented planners live largely in the moment, avoiding intentionality about the future and long-term planning. They certainly are involved in tasks or activities, but they don’t think about where these steps will lead. Of course, some forgo thinking about the future in any form and “live in moment.” They seem to be focused on who they are rather than who they might be or what they might do.
One size does not fit all when it comes to formulating a useful plan for your future. When leadership development programs attempt to convince everyone to use the same format and propose one “best way” to think about a person’s future and plans, it is not surprising that change is not sustained. There is always the possibility, too, that a person may use different styles in various circumstances of life—home, work, and play. Each of the three styles has wisdom for the other; the point is to know and honor your preference or preferences and be aware of the others as you organize activities in your plan.
Despite the differences, each style employs a set of skills that can be helpful in the planning process. A coach can be helpful in working with an individual to discover their personal vision for life and the most appropriate way to pursue it—goal-oriented, direction-oriented, and action-oriented. Coaching can provide clarity, motivation, and accountability to pursue the vision you have for yourself.
If you want to talk about coaching or complete a free Planning Style Assessment, please contact me.