The Paralysis of Planning: How Fear Holds Us Back
If the thought of planning makes you cringe, you’re not alone. Many people allow fears to stop them from planning and achieving their goals.
This fear of planning can have a significant negative impact on one’s mental health, leading to a cycle of inaction and disappointment, according to Elisha Lowe, a registered nurse, business strategist, writer, entrepreneur and inspirational speaker with two decades of experience in healthcare.
Excuses That Keep You from Succeeding
There are three common excuses that prevent people from effective planning, Lowe explains:
- Fear of Failure: Some resist planning out of fear and a desire to avoid being wrong.
- Apathy or Indifference: Others don’t know or can’t see what they desire, so they become apathetic, saying “What’s the point?”
- Lack of Planning Skills: Many believe they lack the special skill set required to plan, so they don’t even try.
Overcoming Fear Through a Clear Vision
Mignon Francois, the owner and operator of the award-winning The Cupcake Collection bakery in Nashville, shares how she overcame her fear of planning. “Inspired by the principles in Jack Canfield’s ‘The Success Principles,’ Mignon set a clear vision for working fewer days this year, allowing her to spend more time on other passions,” Lowe writes.
Mignon emphasizes the importance of not overthinking the plan, as that can lead to procrastination. “She suggests taking a few minutes and write it down,” Lowe notes.
Tweaking the Plan as You Go Along
With 10 years of business experience, Mignon has learned to create efficient processes and delegate day-to-day tasks to her trusted staff. “This freed her up to pursue other interests while still maintaining the success of her bakery,” Lowe explains. “Mignon’s story demonstrates that planning is not about perfection, but rather a flexible roadmap that can be adjusted as needed.”
The Power of Planning for Mental Health
As Lowe, the founder of Adventures in Healthcare Entrepreneurship, emphasizes, “Making a plan does not guarantee success, but it can have a profound impact on one’s mental health.
Planning helps focus your attention, prepare you for life’s ups and downs, and provide a sense of purpose and direction.” By overcoming the fear of planning, individuals can unlock their full potential and achieve their dreams, ultimately leading to improved mental well-being.
