Releasing Attachment

I’m not much of a planner in the creative scene. I like the chaos that comes with creativity and the spontaneity of it all. Yet lately I’ve learned that sometimes, bringing order through a plan helps me focus my energy on the task at hand instead of having to do all of the other “stuff” that can be distracting.

Let’s be clear for a second on what aspect of planning I’m talking about: this isn’t about planning for outcomes, or imagining the worst thing will happen, or hoping for the best.

Planning for future results is darn near impossible (believe me, I’ve tried). However, planning for your future actions and intentions is possible.

That’s because the locus of control is internal, as opposed to external.

There is value in setting forth what you are going to do. In my experience, when I sit down at my computer and plan to have my screens clear of notifications and try to think on a full stomach, that goes way better than if I have no less than twenty tabs open and upper-right pop-ups dropping by every two seconds to say HENLO.

unless you’re tucker - then you can stop by anytime

I may not finish the memo I’m working on, or gain full comprehension of a jiu jitsu technique that I’m watching, but at least I’m giving myself the greatest opportunity to succeed.

Take a look at your goals today at work, in training, or in your relationships — how can you place more focus on internal effort? Can you give yourself space to act without attachment to the outcomes?