Back up plans reduce stress. They make sense. There is no logical reason for not having one. In your personal and work life you make plans. You hope they work out. When they don’t you get upset. If only I had a back up plan!
You resist having a back up plan for emotional reasons. There is also an element of magical thinking. If I don’t have one then my first choice will work out. This is like life or disability insurance. If I don’t have insurance then I won’t die or become disabled.
A back up plan can be surprisingly and remarkably rewarding. In my late 20’s many of my friends were getting married. That’s what I wanted and hoped it would happen for me. In case it didn’t I needed a back up plan. I was determined to not feel sorry for myself.
I quit my unfulfilling job and started a business. I threw myself in with support from a great coach. Soon I became successful. I felt great. Marriage was far from my mind. My back up plan helped me realize my greatest talents as an entrepreneur, counselor and coach.
Back up plans are necessary for many reasons. They protect you from what you don’t have control over. Consider a back up plan for your back up plan! They broaden your perspective and open up possibilities. Your stress is reduced and you can focus on other priorities.
I love to help people transition into self-employment and retirement. These are big decisions that require a thorough review of talents, skills, values and priorities. Even with excellent preparation they need a back up plan. It is well worth the time to have one. Happy to help you!
MarGO Geller, LCSW
Licensed Counselor and Personal, Business, Career Coach
404-218-4559
MarGO@MargoGeller.com
http://MargoGeller.com
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