I’ve found Step 3 to be the fun part for me as I’ve painted my purpose. I’m really big on planning. As a matter of fact, I love to plan. Planning helps me put everything into perspective. Whether it’s starting your business, going to school, or even planning an outfit for a special event, date, or ladies’ night, you want it to be perfect right? Well, then you’ll have to plan, because if not you’ll more than likely run into a few hiccups that can put a damper on everything (Believe me I’ve learned from experience.).

Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

You’ve heard me say that before, right? The “Five P’s” are kind of a big deal in my household. If you’re anything like me, you want things done right and that it doesn’t matter how long it takes as long as you are happy with the end result. Take your time with planning and don’t rush. Rushing won’t get you what you want, it will only get you to an end game faster—One that may not even be a part of your purpose. Check out my list of “Planning Must-dos” that helped me along my journey of purpose discovery:  

1. Write It Down.

While you’re planning write down EVERYTHING, and when I say EVERYTHING I mean EVERYTHING. For me I’m a pen to paper girl. I live by my planner, it’s like my safe haven to keep my life on track. Now, I know with technology nowadays you don’t really “need” a planner, but the necessity to have some type of tools to conquer your next big move is so important.

2. Remain Consistent.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, right? Do a little bit each day. Designate time for planning your purpose, on purpose. For me and balancing my hectic life, one day I can invest three hours and another I can only give it 30 minutes. But, the daily practice of investing a little (or a lot) of time, helps keep my vision and goals near to my head and heart. 

3. Ask for Help.

I can’t be the only one with the “I don’t want to bother people” mentality. While asking for help can be tough for me, I learned that it’s paramount in my planning process. I experienced the benefit of asking for help when I reached out to my bomb marketing guru. I will be the first to tell you, I would probably still be doing research and trying to figure out my next move had I not asked for help.  

4. Check “It” Off as You Go.

“I’m making a list and checking it twice,” doesn’t just go for Ol’ St. Nick. Checklists have changed my planning time. While you are planning, your checklist will keep you on track and let you know if plans must be altered. Oh, and when you cross that task off your checklist it makes you feel so much better. This may even be cause for a mini celebration. Don’t forget to celebrate your wins along your journey! 

With these steps you can begin your process to living your best life. Just remember planning is an ongoing process. Even when you get to where you want to be, you’ll have to plan to prepare for your next move. Have patience! Trust me when what you plan is aligned with your purpose, things will come into fruition and you’ll be able to enjoy every bit of it.

Want to continue painting your purpose? Read Step 4: Step Out On Faith next!