The Problem with Planning
Sunday Morning, for the first time ever, I decided to plan out all my meals. Since I have been home with more time, the snacking and full pasta lunches has increased, so I figured planning out meals for the week would help keep Andrew and I healthy. So Sunday morning, I planned.
Sunday Evening, I got a call from a friend with a last minute opportunity to go to London. She was going there for work and had planned to have her husband join her. Unfortunately, it was looking like his Passport was not going to come in time and so they were inviting me to go in his place.
Monday Morning, I decided to change my plans and accept the invitation - which wasn't an easy decision to make. I had several commitments on the calendar and I really don't like going back on my commitments. However, I decided with how hard the last month has been, I needed to put myself first and take the opportunity. Maybe it was self-care. Maybe it was self-ish. Maybe a little bit of both. But I know it was the right call.
Tuesday Morning, my friend transferred his ticket to me and so I began canceling my plans. So long meal plan, we're having a cheat week!
Tuesday Afternoon, I got a text saying there was a chance his Passport would arrive today, just 24 hours before the flight. Which means that when you read this on Sunday, I might be in Hampshire South of London, or I might be in New Jersey eating Quinoa and Salmon. And you know what? I honestly don't mind. I would be thrilled for my friend if his plans worked out, even if it means mine fell through. This whole situation was out of their control. All they were trying to do was pivot and try to make the best of it, which is all any of us can ever do.
The problem with planning is that it gives us the illusion that we have control. But the truth is, we don’t have control, and we never will. We should still make plans; plan out your best life you can imagine! Just be ready to roll with the punches when they come. Accept that your plans are just what they are: plans. They aren’t guaranteed and so we need to learn to be okay when they don’t pan out. Furthermore, if you can learn to be happy for your friends when their plans work out, even when yours don't, you'll be all the better for it.
