Living by the compass, not the clock

Having a plan for your life is essential; it provides direction, clarity, and a sense of what to do next. But what happens when things don’t go according to plan? What if reality diverges from what you've written down? What if the next step you intended to take gets postponed?

There’s often a stubbornness that arises from planning because we desire control. When we meticulously outline our lives down to the last detail, we leave little room for uncertainties or unexpected outcomes. This need for control doesn’t mean we’re doing something wrong; instead, it highlights our lack of influence over external circumstances. It’s perfectly acceptable to deviate from our initial plans. Yet, society often suggests that any different outcome is related to failure or misalignment with our “right path.”

Speaking of the "right path," I find this phrase irksome. The reality is that there is no singular correct way to live your life, and this is a point I'll delve into in another article. However, the fixation on what constitutes the right path can trap us in a cycle where we focus solely on outcomes instead of enjoying the journey itself.

There’s a unique beauty in having aspirations and inspirations that guide us and give us a reason to rise each morning. These aspirations may manifest as goals, milestones, passions, or even small joys that bring happiness to our lives. I've come to realize that becoming overly focused on achieving a single outcome can provide some direction, but it’s in the flexibility during the journey that we truly experience life. We discover new opportunities and uncover different versions of ourselves.

So, if we have a plan, it should not hinge on strict deadlines. Yes, in contexts like work or school, deadlines are unavoidable. However, it’s about following a path that feels right for you, which can ultimately bring you closer to your goals. A rigid approach can catch us off guard when things don’t unfold as expected. Why does this happen? Because the moment we expect every second to align with our vision, especially regarding external factors, we can feel as if we are failing. Following your own compass means focusing on what you can control rather than being overwhelmed by everything around you. Personal experience has taught me how easily this can lead to frustration.

Through grappling with feelings of failure and comparing my journey to others, I’ve refined my understanding of true guidance. It’s about being driven by purpose, acting out of love rather than fear, and recognizing that controlling every outcome isn’t feasible. Instead, it’s about learning to manage my energy effectively and accepting what I cannot control while letting life unfold.

Don’t get me wrong, the journey toward this mindset is often easier said than done. It requires practice to let go of the urge to control every detail. However, freeing yourself from this burden lightens your load, allowing you to embrace life’s experiences fully. Stepping back helps you assess whether your actions and surroundings align with your true self.

When you stop trying to control everything, you create space to listen to what genuinely works for you. This process enables you to trust your own compass rather than being dictated by the ticking clock or looming deadlines. So, why not embrace the unfolding process? Trust your path, and let go of the desire to control what isn’t yours.

Z.