What I Learned on the Day I Wasn’t Planning

As someone who has dedicated her career to helping others map out their futures, create plans, and make intentional choices, the concept of a birthday without a plan was new to me.

But this year I chose to live each moment without a structured agenda, leaving room for whatever might unfold. For the first time, I didn’t spend the day thinking about the future or setting any intentions; instead, alone on a breathtaking beach in Brazil, I learned the beauty of simply being.

My day began early, as I woke with the first sunlight before 5 am. I strolled along the beach, savoring the gentle morning breeze, looking at locals exercising and opening their businesses, and watching the world come to life.

For breakfast, I treated myself to something indulgent and satisfying, taking the time to truly appreciate the flavors and the nourishment.

Then came the messages and calls - each one a reminder of the people in my life who I love and I am grateful for crossing paths with. Some friends even went as far as tracking down the hotel where I was to send gifts, a gesture that deepened my understanding of the word present - a gift not just in the tangible sense, but in the presence of love and connection.

Throughout the day, I balanced personal joy with professional responsibility, sharing calls and coaching sessions with trusted clients who have been integral parts of my journey. I was happy to see how much work plays an important role in my life and it is a source of energy and satisfaction.

A surprising new friendship sparked in the middle of it all - yes! I am that person who has coffee dates wherever she is in the world! - and by evening, I found myself taking a bold leap: a big haircut, a small yet significant symbol of change. Voilà! Welcome, 47!

The day was rich in experiences I hadn’t orchestrated, and each moment layered onto the next, revealing the power of presence.

Balancing Present and Future

As I reflected on this day, I realized that living in the moment doesn’t mean abandoning the future - it means balancing the two. We need plans, goals, and visions to guide us, but there’s also a unique richness in letting go of the need to control each detail.

Being present allowed me to reconnect with my own motivations and desires in a way that planning alone never could.

It was a reminder that sometimes, life’s best gifts come when we stop looking forward and instead fully immerse ourselves in the now.

So, here’s my invitation to you: turn off the crystal ball, step away from tomorrow for just a little while, and savor the present moment.

Let yourself simply be, and see where that openness leads you. You might be surprised by what you find!