Growth Strategy: The Odyssey Plan

Have you ever wondered what your life would be like if you had taken a different path? Perhaps you chose one career over another, moved to a new city, or followed a passion that led you to where you are now. But what if you had made different choices?

It's fascinating to imagine the endless possibilities and the different versions of ourselves that could have emerged. Today, I invite you to explore this intriguing concept, the Odyssey Plan.

Good for: Helping you envision and navigate multiple potential futures.

Best used by: You

The Odyssey Plan, as described by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans in their book "Designing Your Life," involves creating three different five-year plans for your future.

When I first tried it, I was amazed at how liberating it felt. I realised that my current path wasn’t the only option.

Exploring alternative and wild card paths opened up new possibilities and gave me the courage to pursue my passions more boldly. It also helped me feel more secure, knowing that if one plan didn’t work out, I had other exciting options to explore.

Each plan represents a unique version of what your life could look like. This exercise is designed to stretch your thinking, spark creativity, and help you see beyond the obvious.

I have recently had the opportunity to make a change in my working life, and I used the Odyssey Plan, because it helped me to step outside my usual thinking and embrace the vast potential my life holds.

It’s a creative and empowering way to explore not just one, but three different futures, each filled with unique opportunities and challenges.

This exercise encourages us to dream boldly, consider alternatives, and prepare for unexpected changes, which is incredibly liberating.

Creating Your Three Plans

Life One: The Current Path

This plan is about your current trajectory. It’s what you’re already doing or planning to do. It’s familiar and aligns with your existing goals, skills, and interests.

• What does my current path look like if I continue for the next five years
• What are the potential milestones and achievements along this path?
• How do I feel about staying on this course?

Life Two: The Alternative Path

This plan explores a different direction you could take if your current path became unavailable. It might involve a passion or interest you’ve sidelined.

• If I couldn’t continue on my current path, what would I do instead?
• What skills or interests have I neglected that I could explore?
• How would this alternative path change my daily life and long-term goals?

Life Three: The Wild Card Path

This is your chance to dream big and think outside the box. Imagine a future where you follow a radically different career or lifestyle.

• What’s a wild dream or ambition I’ve always had but never pursued?
• How would my life look if I followed this dream?
• What steps would I need to take to make this wild card path a reality?

This growth strategy is more than just an exercise. It’s a way to broaden your perspective and reduce the anxiety of choosing a single path.

By envisioning multiple futures, you become more flexible and open to change. You realise that there isn’t just one “right” way forward, but many possibilities that can lead to a fulfilling life.

I encourage you to take some time this week to create your own Odyssey Plans. It’s a fun and insightful exercise that can help you navigate your future with confidence and creativity.

Grab a notebook, find a quiet space, and let your imagination run wild. You might be surprised at what you discover about yourself and your potential futures.

"Exploring the many paths your life could take isn't just about planning; it's about discovering the boundless possibilities within yourself."

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Remember you can find more reflections and thought-provoking questions like this on the Reevew personal growth toolkit at reevew.co.