Magical Planning Technique
Don’t be in such a hurry to work it all out, there’s no need to panic – really, there isn’t. I know that’s easier said than done – especially at this time of year with ‘new year, new you’ every way you turn.
So, let me help you drown out some of that noise.
It’s time to start designing your life on your terms.
But first, I should mention that this is a tried and trusted process that I was given at a workshop some years back. It’s simple but incredibly powerful, and it has changed my life and outlook.
I’ve used the technique every year since, often at the start of a new project (my new kitchen is the latest example).
So, if you find conventional goal-setting boring, keep reading!
Warning, you may go deep, so don’t be surprised if it triggers some emotions.
If it does - great, and if it doesn’t – that’s good too.
The process
Step One: Review
Make yourself a cup of tea, and gather your calendar, diary, and phone. (Forget about digital detoxing today – your photos and social media accounts hold memories and reminders).
On a blank sheet of A4, draw a line through the middle and mark the 12 months of the year along the line.
Review the key moments, highs (and lows) of the year passed, then plot them out like you would a graph. (The high points above the line and the low ones below it). Include holidays, promotions, birthdays, weddings, special occasions, and sad or tough ones. Get it all out on that chart.
This is your year-to-view timeline. Don't avoid this part – it’s where the gold lies!
Now, looking at the chart you’ve made, and with no judgment or self-criticism, go ahead and find a word or phrase to sum up the year that's passed. Don’t be surprised if there are some spectacular peaks and troughs.
Sound simple?
It is.
But it’s the getting it out of your head and down on paper that gives valuable perspective.
Now, you're ready for future planning.
Step Two: Design
Avoid any temptation to skip step one. Trust me on this one: You'll be missing a trick if you do.
Planning for the future is easier when you know where you've been. So instead of plucking a random ‘high vibe’ word out of thin air, get that valuable bird’s-eye view first.
Then, when you’re ready, pick a word or phrase to represent your intention or focus going forward.
Step Three: Magic
Don’t be put off by my ‘magic’ heading, it’s just for fun (or is it?)
Seal your deal with a vision board.
A vision board is a visual reminder of the mood, quality, feeling or goal you've set for the year ahead. There are plenty online if you need some inspiration. Pinterest is a good place to start.
Creating from scratch by tearing images from magazines, cutting, and sticking is recommended, as it will help you commit to your intention. But if you prefer, you can make a virtual one or buy postcards that inspire you.
Once you’ve completed your vision board, put it somewhere you’ll see it—your desk or desktop, on the fridge, in your purse or wallet—as a visual reminder when motivation is required or the sea ahead gets choppy.
How this process helped me
I discovered that my too-busy work lifestyle was keeping me from doing many of the things I love, the things that give me energy and lift my spirit.
I could see in black and white that my life was all work and no play.
I pinned the board up where I could see it last thing at night and first thing in the morning _ it became my North Star.
Within three months, I had quit my corporate job. Then, during a wonderful sabbatical, I used the same technique to design a happier, more fulfilling life.
I’d love to hear how you get on with this process or if you use something similar. I learnt this one from Danielle North on an Instant Pause.
If you need help with your work/lifestyle, get in touch!
Happy New Now!
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ABOUT ME
I’m Tracy, a Career Consultant and former Executive Headhunter. Through 1:1 coaching, I help senior executives and leaders land great jobs and be successful at work.
I work with clients around the world from my London-based Zoom office.
If you’re ready for straight talk and career guidance, get in touch – let's start the conversation.
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