Plans are step-by-step ways to get to a particular destination. Intention is a flexible focus on a desired destination. Given the speed of change in the world and the unpredictability, it’s probably better to hold strong intentions than plans.

Imagine looking for an ATM. Because of your familiarity with your city, you have an idea of where the closest ATM may be. So you create a plan to get there and go. Little do you realize that there is one that’s even closer than the one you went to, actually along the way.

The end goal was to find an ATM. When you have an intention, you are open to the fact that there may be a closer ATM. You are more focused on the why than the how. Sometimes the forward thinking process required for planning closes you off to better options. Plans require a lot of assumptions-that we know what’s best and the best way to get there.

A strong intention will open you up to the infinite ways to accomplish your goals. You will miss less opportunities. A friend that owes you money may pass by. You may find money on the ground. You may see what you’re looking for at a garage sale for cheap. There are so many ways to get what you want and if you learn to let go of your way, you will start to see the invisible ATMs.

Expect the unexpected!