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When Things Don't Go As Planned

While I always recommend planning, sometimes even the best plans don't go exactly as expected. But it's rarely the end of the world when this happens.

Here are my top tips to help you remain productive and positive when things don't go as you originally hoped they would.

1. Remain calm.
A surefire way to ensure your day is really unproductive is to waste most of it getting frantic, frustrated and angry. Stay calm and you'll be able to begin formulating and implementing solutions in the most productive, stress-free manner.

2. Focus on the solution.
Rather than complaining about the problem, focus your mind and energy on the solution(s). For example, if you just burned the roast and company is arriving in a half hour, don't focus on the burnt roast. Focus on where the nearest Chinese take-out restaurant is or focus on a meal you can whip up quickly in the meantime. If you can't get a report to a customer when you promised it, don't waste time being frustrated over missing the deadline. Determine when you can get the customer his report and what you can do in addition to make up for this mishap.

3. List your possibilities.
If you didn't originally have a back-up plan, brainstorm (yourself or with others) and then make a written list of options. It is easier to choose a plan when you can glance through all of the possible alternatives.

4. Divvy up some tasks.
Very often, when original plans don't happen as expected, back up plans require additional tasks that need to be done. Whenever possible, delegate these duties to others, such as family members, friends or associates. Dinner guests arriving early? Ask your oldest son to prepare the dinner salad. Deadline was moved up? Coordinate a team of co-workers to rally, stay at work a bit later and get that project done.

5. Don't sweat it.
Regardless of how bad things may turn out, try not to sweat it. Realize that things aren't always going to work out, chalk it up to experience and look ahead to the future. Make a list of what went wrong and how you can help ensure it doesn't happen again. Focus on 'what's next' rather than dwelling on the past.

6. Have back-up plans in the future.
While you certainly don't need to have a detailed back-up plan for everything in your day, having one is definitely suggested for any major events. For instance, if you're planning an outdoor birthday party for your son, you should have a back-up plan in case it rains. Or, if you're planning to show a Powerpoint presentation from your laptop at an upcoming workshop, have paper handouts on hand in case you have technical difficulties.

by Maria Gracia - Get Organized Now!
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