Our final level of planning works on timescales of years and decades. This type of thinking is instinctively quite challenging for us Homo sapiens, but it’s essential for mastering modern living. 

Like we discussed last week, life is long – certainly long enough to pursue an awe-inspiring purpose and fully capitalize on the awesome power of compounding. 

This is what today’s level of planning is all about. 

Define your awe-inspiring purpose

Go on. Don’t be shy now.

What awesome creation do you want to give to the world? If it sounds impossible, you’re on the right track 🙂 

Find avenues for long-term reinvestment

The path to your awe-inspiring purpose is paved with continuous reinvestments in tangible assets, intangible assets and personal liberty. 

What types of assets will you need to take the next little step closer to your purpose? How can you get them? Will they also enhance subsequent steps?

Always remember that we’re talking about a timeframe of decades here. No need to feel rushed or intimidated. You’ve got plenty of time 🙂

The only purpose of this exercise is to point yourself in the right direction for every one of the tens of thousands of days you get to spend on this planet. 

The return of the Gantt chart

Our learned friend the Gantt chart from yesterday’s post is due for another appearance. 

In practice, the long-term Gantt chart looks very similar to the monthly planner discussed yesterday. The only difference is that the top row now lists years instead of months. 

This forces your mind into long-term mode.

You need to fill that chart with big tasks or projects that last longer than one whole year. And each one of them should be some form of enabling investment in your purpose. 

In practice…

Just like most other plans, this one will change many times over the years.

That’s totally fine. It’s just important that you always have this blueprint to keep you pointed an intelligently planned direction. 

Update it whenever something big comes up that changes your plans or you get some fantastic new insight for more effective reinvestment. 

Also, whenever you feel a little lost or rudderless, spend some quality time with your long-term plan. It’s a great way to get back on a purposeful track. 

Just open your mind and go for it!

You might be surprised to see what comes out when you do 🙂