"Living Forward" by Michael Hyatt and Daniel Harkavy offers a proven plan to help individuals stop drifting through life and start living with purpose. The book provides a step-by-step guide to creating an effective life plan that aligns with one's values and goals.
The central idea of "Living Forward" is that we can take control of our lives by creating a deliberate plan that encompasses all aspects of our existence. This life plan serves as a personal GPS, guiding us towards our desired destination while allowing for course corrections along the way. By focusing on our legacy, prioritizing what truly matters, and taking consistent action, we can bridge the gap between our current reality and the life we envision for ourselves.
* Dedicate a full day within the next two weeks to draft your life plan * Find a quiet, inspiring location away from distractions * Write 5-10 pages addressing the three main life plan questions
* Write your own eulogy * Create legacy statements for important people in your life * Use these to guide your life decisions
* Identify 5-12 priority areas in your life (e.g., health, relationships, career) * Evaluate the current state of each account * Rank them by importance and compare with their current health
* For each life account, write ideal outcome statements * Assess your current reality in each area * Create specific, timetabled action plans to bridge the gap
* Act as a triage officer for your commitments * Create an ideal schedule based on your life account goals * Learn to say no to demands that don't align with your priorities
* Read your plan daily for the first three months * Conduct weekly 15-20 minute reviews * Perform quarterly assessments and set new goals * Do an annual full-day review and revision
Resources and Tools: - Life planning worksheets - Legacy statement templates - Time management apps - Goal-setting frameworks - Accountability partners or coaches
Key Takeaways: - Your life plan is a living document that requires regular attention and adjustment - Prioritize activities that align with your core values and long-term goals - Don't be afraid to say no to commitments that don't serve your life plan - Regular review and reflection are crucial for staying on track - Remember that it's never too late to take control of your life's direction