How to Live with Structure and Flow

Growing up with an accountant for a dad, 

Family vacations were always planned with spreadsheets. 

Every detail was accounted for - 

Travel logistics, daily activities, emergency contacts - you name it.

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good spreadsheet. 

But I’ve also realized there’s a cost to rigid planning:

1/ Stifles Spontaneity: 

When followed too tightly, a spreadsheet can limit what makes a vacation, a vacation. The best moments often come from unexpected discoveries and unplanned adventures.

2/ False Sense of Security: 

Anyone who travels knows that things can go awry at any time. No amount of planning can prevent delays, cancellations, or CloudStrike disruptions.

As an adult, I now approach travel differently. 

Instead of planning every moment, I make a list of places I want to visit and aim to see one or two each day. I leave the specifics open, allowing for spontaneous exploration. For example, if I'm in Istanbul and want to see the Hagia Sophia, I head in its general direction, knowing it's east of my hotel. I keep a map in my bag and stay present to my surroundings, open to unexpected experiences that might be even better than I imagined.

This way, I set clear intentions while remaining present and adaptable.

My approach to travel is grounded in two key beliefs:

1. Trust in Self: 

True safety is created from within. By trusting our creativity, resourcefulness, and inner wisdom, we can navigate any environment and handle whatever comes our way.

2/ Ability to Create from Any Situation: 

Every situation holds the potential for growth and discovery. Even if travel plans go sideways, we can turn every circumstance into an enriching experience.

Not surprisingly, I apply these principles to my daily life. 

Here’s how I apply these principles:

1. Leading Workshops: I start with a general plan but remain flexible. Instead of shoehorning an agenda, I allow the participants’ interests to guide the session. For example, if a workshop takes an unexpected turn but engages the group, I follow the energy and adapt the focus.

2. Relationships: When making plans with friends or family, my emphasis is on the intention to connect, not on sticking to a detailed schedule. For instance, if we plan a dinner but end up enjoying an impromptu game night, I dance with what’s present and embrace the change.

3. Creating a New Service Offer: I begin with a vision and remain open to adapting based on emerging needs. For example, if market research reveals an unexpected need, I adjust the offering accordingly.

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These are just starting points. I’d love to hear your thoughts:

How do you balance structure and flow? Planning and adaptability?