This week’s inspiration comes from a quote I discovered long ago during my morning reading time. At the time, I was frustrated. My body was misbehaving and I had to cancel my plans.

Granted, each cancellation had a valid reason: I’d tweaked my back and fought through two migraines. All had resolved, but I was annoyed that I’d had to give in to my ailments and alter my plans.

What words inspired me?

Plans are useless; but planning is essential. – Dwight D. Eisenhower

Somehow that thought both comforted and encouraged me. I believe in making plans. As most of you know, one of my go-to mantras is my father’s “What’s planned is possible.”

However, I also know that life goes sideways. Often! What we have planned is sometimes simply not possible.     

But Eisenhower was right. Planning is essential. Thoughtful planning enables a possibility mindset. And when we lean into the possibilities, failed plans become just another step in the planning process.

In fact, failed plans offer an enormous opportunity for learning, growth, and a shift in perspective that may fuel another plan that just might succeed. 

After I was paralyzed, I learned quickly that planning is crucial. A muddy gravel parking lot, a doorway too narrow, a threshold too high, and a wheelchair lift with no key, all sent me home—epic fails. However, each failed plan revealed important details I need to consider in the next set of plans. 

Advance work is key for me to have a successful outing. 

And yes, I’ve already scouted The Ivy Bookshop, the Barnes and Noble, and the Baltimore County Public Library to make sure my plans ARE possible for each book-signing—and I hope to see you there!

How about you? Has a failed plan ever prepared you for success?

And on we go. . .

P.S. Just wanted to share that I had a lovely chat with Baltimore Fishbowl about “Great Ways to Start Your Day.” You can check it out here!