PLANNED AND SPONTANEOUS APPROACHES

There are two opposite person’s approaches to life: planned and spontaneous.

People who are dominated by a planned approach to life prefer an orderly, structured environment with a certain system of regulations. They are organized and consistent, make sure that everything goes according to plan, feel at ease when everything is known in advance. Their strategy is PLANNING AND CONTROL.

People who have a predominantly spontaneous approach to life are focused on direct perception. They believe that life is changeable and unpredictable, are open to new information and experience, act situationally, according to circumstances. Their strategy is to BE FLEXIBLE AND LIVE IN THE FLOW.

The table below shows the typical characteristics of the two approaches.

People with the planned approach tend to have a regular rhythm of life, like to have a plan for all occasions, have clear goals and consistently approach them. They can focus on one task for a long time temporarily limiting other needs and without being distracted.

People with the spontaneous approach prefer a flexible rhythm of life, can make plans, but rarely stick to them. They do not tend to concentrate on one thing for a long time, their attention easily switches to new information.

Due to the tendency to in-the-moment perception, people with the spontaneous approach easily adapt to changing situations and quickly pick up new ideas. People with the planned approach also like changes, but changes must be planned. If circumstances change, they need time to get used to them and re-arrange their plans.

Example. Thomas and Claire decided to go to the cinema. Thomas (who has a spontaneous approach) is convinced that tickets can be purchased at the venue. And if they are not there, the plan can be changed: watch another movie or go to a cafe. Life will throw them the best option. However, Claire (who has a planned approach) is sure that tickets must be purchased in advance so that everything goes according to plan.

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