Why Have a Plan B When You Have a Plan A?

(Article by Matt Meyer, Co-Creator of the MindFlow Cycle Program)

Not too long ago, I was walking on a trail with my oldest daughter. We were talking about business, work, and the future—conversations I always cherish because they’re moments to guide and inspire her. At some point, I expressed what I thought was sage advice: “It’s important to have a Plan B, just in case your business doesn’t work out.”

I expected her to nod along. Instead, she practically stopped in her tracks.

“Are you telling me my Plan A is going to fail?” she asked, her tone somewhere between confused and disappointed.

I was speechless. She wasn’t wrong to question me, and her words hit me like a ton of bricks.

The Problem with a Plan B

How often have we heard—or even said—something like this? “Have a backup plan, just in case things don’t go as expected.” On the surface, it sounds like good advice. But let’s dig deeper.

What are we really saying when we tell someone to have a Plan B? We’re admitting that we don’t fully believe in their Plan A. Worse, we’re subtly encouraging them to do the same. By warming up a Plan B “just in case,” we create doubt and dilute focus.

Think about it. How can someone truly give their all to their goals if part of their energy is already invested in a fallback option? When we plan for failure, we’re telling ourselves—whether consciously or subconsciously—that success is uncertain, or maybe even unlikely.

This applies not just to businesses or careers but to life in general. Look at college students, for example. How many graduate with a major and a minor? On the surface, it seems wise—diversification, right? But ask yourself: is that minor a sign of curiosity and passion, or is it a safety net because they don’t fully believe in their major?

So, What Should You Do Instead of Having a Plan B?

If planning for failure isn’t the answer, what should you do instead? Here are some steps to build resilience and ensure your Plan A succeeds:

1. Fully Commit to Your Plan A

If you’ve done the work to create a vision for your life or business, trust it. Give it everything you’ve got. Half-measures lead to half-results. By fully committing to your Plan A, you’ll operate with greater confidence, urgency, and focus.

2. Plan for Flexibility, Not Failure

Instead of creating a Plan B, think about adaptability. How can you pivot or adjust your Plan A if challenges arise? Being flexible doesn’t mean abandoning your goals; it means finding new ways to achieve them.

3. Anticipate Obstacles—And Prepare to Overcome Them

There’s a difference between expecting failure and preparing for challenges. Every Plan A comes with hurdles. Map out potential obstacles and brainstorm strategies to address them. This proactive approach strengthens your plan without undermining your belief in it.

4. Surround Yourself with Support

Pursuing a big goal can be daunting, especially if you’re going all in. That’s why it’s crucial to have the right people in your corner—mentors, coaches, friends, and family who believe in your vision and can provide encouragement and guidance when the going gets tough.

5. Focus on Your “Why”

When you’re 100% clear on why you’re pursuing your Plan A, it’s much easier to stay committed, even when things get hard. Your “why” acts as an anchor, reminding you of what’s at stake and keeping you aligned with your purpose.

The Bottom Line

By focusing entirely on Plan A, you’re sending a powerful message—not just to others, but to yourself. You’re saying, “I believe in this vision. I believe in myself. I’m going to make it work.”

The next time you’re tempted to create a Plan B, ask yourself: Am I preparing for success, or planning for failure? Choose success. Choose belief. Choose commitment.

Your Plan A deserves nothing less.

A Final Thought

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about how to fully commit to your goals, I invite you to explore the MindFlow Cycle Program. It’s designed to help leaders like you align your mindset, tap into your full potential, and take intentional action toward your vision—without getting bogged down by fear or doubt.

Let’s make your Plan A unstoppable.