The power of a “Plan B”

Never underestimate the power of having a "Plan B."

During the last recession, I was so stressed out about the possibility of losing my business that I couldn't think straight and I couldn't sleep.

And then I formulated my "Plan B."

One night (at, like, 3am), I finally asked myself, "If my business/job/career all went away tomorrow, what would I do then? Where kind of jobs would I apply for? What companies would I want to work for?"

The answer came quickly to me: I would immediately apply at The Container Store, Crate & Barrel, and local hardware stores — places where I've always thought it would be fun to work.

I didn't believe any of these were "career" choices (although, who knows?), but they'd keep some money coming in and I probably wouldn't hate going to work every day. And it would buy me time to formulate my next "Plan A."

The night I got clear about my "Plan B" changed everything. I relaxed a lot. I slept better. I focused better at work. I can't tell you what a relief it was to admit to myself that I'd be ok and life wouldn't have to completely suck if I had to get another job.

I'm reminding myself of this right now for very obvious reasons , but I'm also sharing it in hopes that it might help a few others as well.