The plans of the diligent lead to profit
as surely as haste leads to poverty.
(Proverbs 21:5)

Most of the time, when we are caught up in the rush of daily life, it seems like too much trouble to stop and make a plan. Usually, we put off serious planning because there are so many other things that “have to be done” we think there is no time left for planning ahead.

But that’s not true.

Slow and steady progress gets us farther than quick and dirty in the long run.

Taking the time to think about what we are doing and where we are going makes sure that we are making the best use of time, doing what is best for that moment. Instead of just doing something, we are confident we are doing the right thing.

You are moving when you tread water AND when you swim, but those two activities serve entirely different purposes. Are you doing the one that is most effective right now? Furthermore, swimming away from shore isn’t all that helpful when the boat sinks.

It doesn’t have to be a full weekend planning retreat. A few minutes at the beginning of the day go a long way toward productivity and maintaining priorities. An hour once a quarter is almost always available, if we value the results.

I assure you, take a deep breath and think about where you are going and how to get there. It’s worth it.