Most of us suck at making long-term decisions in the short.
We’re emotional, on top of that, we wrongly estimate (in every direction) how things will play out and then act on that guesstimate.
People don’t reach their goals because they never actually move towards them.
I was never a fan of the 10 year plan concept– it’s too long and things change constantly. But there has to be something you use to keep you grounded and untempted by passing opportunities.
For me, that’s imagining my old self.
Take one of those photos that age you past your prime and stare at it– you’ll start thinking different.
I realized I act, day to day, like I won’t live very long.
Which would be fine if true, but if it turns out I healthily reach the end…. well, won’t be as prepared.
My plans have only ever been short term and poorly pieced together.
If I start looking at the bigger picture, the longer (for life) timeline, suddenly the things I’m worried about and having a hard time deciding, become resolved instantly.
When you’re making important decisions, you need to think long.
Take career planning for example.
The next 3 years have a different focus than the next 6, and looking at the latter– I’m thinking about experience and skill rather than pleasure and excitement.
Time changes what we focus on.
We need to consider time.
Plan with wisdom, live with play.
–FOOL
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