Is Planning Stealing Your Joy?

Discover the freedom found in letting go and embracing life’s sacred spontaneity.

Being a planner is something I’ve always believed I’ve excelled at. Yet, like all good traits, when overdone, it can become a shortcoming—robbing us of the joy of spontaneity and the grace to accept life as it unfolds moment by moment. We can plan everything down to the smallest detail, and still have no control over the outcomes, the unexpected surprises, or the twists life throws our way.

That said, planning and organizing are deeply respectable traits. Being on time is courteous and shows respect for those who’ve prepared an event, service, or activity. These are good things. But we would all do well to remember that life happens. Last-minute things come up. The car breaks down. The little one has an accident. Traffic holds us up despite our best efforts to leave early. In the grand scheme of things, everything will still be okay. Being adaptable and making the best of what comes is a wonderful skill. It’s a reminder that we are not robots programmed with rigidity.

For those of us used to a tightly scheduled life, not knowing what’s coming next can feel uncomfortable. Yet, when we look back, we often see that things worked out—even if the path was uncertain.

As someone who has planned, planned, and planned all her life, the past five years have been a journey of discernment. I’ve finally uncovered the “why” behind my need to plan so tightly. That understanding has helped me let go, embrace spontaneity, and rediscover joy. Under stress, I may still lean into planning, but the more I practice releasing outcomes and loosening my grip, the more freedom I experience. I become a better wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Those who’ve known me a long time may notice a shift—a softening away from rigidity. Trust me, I’m not trying to be difficult. I’m simply learning to enjoy life more and worry less. This includes honoring and respecting others’ personalities, whether they lean Type A, Type B, or somewhere in between.

I’m not suggesting we stop planning altogether. But perhaps we can lighten up and take it a bit less seriously. You may just find that life becomes far more fun and enjoyable.

So while planning has its place, it’s not the ultimate source of peace. True freedom comes when we release our grip and trust the One who holds all things together. We may plan our course, but it is the Lord who lovingly establishes our steps.

“In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”   —Proverbs 16:9 (NIV)

May we learn to walk with open hands, trusting that even in the unexpected, God is present and faithful.

Grace to you,

Cindy

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