Can't Seem to Win?

During my formative years, I eagerly anticipated my parents' plans for both my siblings and me. However, as I matured, I realized that their approach to life consisted mainly of day-to-day decisions, revolving around church attendance on Sundays and ensuring we made it to school regularly. I inadvertently adopted a similar approach, not only influenced by my parents but also because of my penchant for procrastination.

The recurring notion of "can't win for losing" echoed in my mind, especially during moments of failure, dealing a blow to my self-esteem. This mindset, coupled with significant life events I struggled to overcome, contributed to some of my mental health challenges.

A crucial lesson emerged from this experience: avoid overcommitting and making promises without a realistic assessment of one's capabilities. While taking on numerous tasks and commitments might enable accomplishment of a few, failing to fulfill promises can tarnish relationships with those expecting your presence. My advice to individuals like myself is to "take your time when trying new things," "avoid rushing," and "don't make promises beyond your current capacity." This approach prevents burnout and maintains positive connections with others.

Engaging in a multitude of activities and making excessive promises can be counterproductive for those aspiring to be organized and strategic. In business ventures, spontaneity without a well-thought-out plan can lead to confusion and a sense of being left behind. I learned the importance of organizing time and thoughts, creating schedules for plans, and relying on both electronic and paper methods for note-taking. Journaling also proved invaluable in organizing thoughts and prioritizing daily tasks.

Reflecting on my experiences, I recalled a piece of advice from Tanner Chidester's book, "Infinite Income," which emphasizes goal-setting. Chidester suggests determining your most significant goal before outlining smaller objectives, asserting that working backward from your ultimate goal maximizes chances of success.

My hope is that sharing my journey may resonate with others who struggle with scheduling, organizing, and planning. It's essential to recognize and address these challenges to pave the way for more effective life goal planning.

As a side note, the phrase "can't win for losing" has an interesting history. According to sources, it emerged in the 1960s, signifying the frustration when unexpected events or misfortune thwart one's plans. It's a reminder that setbacks can impede success, highlighting the need for careful planning and adaptability in life.