Remember Your Future Self

We are called to be architects of the future,
not its victims.
- Buckminster Fuller

It is difficult to be both an architect of the future and also a victim of the future - and yet that is how many of us try to juggle our path into tomorrow. That’s because experience shows us that plans often go awry in ways that we never could have imagined. “If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans” is an old saying that speaks to the unexpected nature involved with planning.

As you Remember Your Future Self, it is unrealistic to expect your plans to go perfectly. In fact, a good architect anticipates and plans for the unexpected delays, surprises and setbacks so that the overall building can rise more or less on time.

As you Remember Your Future Self, imagine a future you who keeps getting back on track no matter what happens. Don’t be surprised by the unexpected. Instead, take each detour in stride and keep moving forward as best as possible.

The core idea is to build resiliency into your future plans- not just rainbows and happiness.

How to build resiliency as you Remember Your Future Self?

1) Anticipate Likely Setbacks
Swimmer Michael Phelps and many other world class athletes bring multiple gear to events, have alternate travel plans, arrive early at venues, and practice in adverse conditions - like “what will happen if my goggles break?”. Well, in Michael Phelps case - he still won the gold medal because he had practiced with broken goggles! The more you take some time to imagine plans going off track, the easier it will be to course correct should the situation arise.

2) Anticipate Serendipity
Life is not always sending bad news. It can also send surprising opportunities. However, if we are so set on our plans, the good opportunity can sail by without us being aware or taking action. Keep an eye out for ways to improve your plan!

3) Anticipate the Weather
The literal weather, as well as the emotional weather of your life goes through seasons and ups and down. The same will be true of your team and colleagues and family members. Sometimes you will need to do construction in the pouring rain - or when you aren’t feeling the best. Don’t let the “rain” stop you from architecting the future.

These three strategies are simple but extremely powerful ways to make sure you become an architect of your future, not just its victim!