December is here – I don’t know about you, but it seems this year has gone by quickly 🤔 Changes are ahead! Let’s make sure you’re ready!
Change is inevitable, and with each new year comes a fresh wave of transitions, challenges, and opportunities. Whether you’re anticipating personal changes, professional shifts, or broader societal developments, having a solid approach to preparation can help you maintain both readiness and peace of mind.
Preparing for the changes ahead encompasses readiness, planning, solid information, and maintaining equilibrium 🌞 For example, healthcare open enrollment ends next week on December 7th for most in the US. Make sure to confirm your choices!
Another example of a change ahead is with Medicare Part B plans, the standard monthly premium will be $185 in 2025, which is $10.30 higher than in 2024. The Part B deductible in 2025 will be $257, which is $17 higher than in 2024.
Make sure to check into State and National law changes that will take effect in January 2025. We’ll have to watch carefully for changes on deck by the new administration. A 25% tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico has been reported.
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Create Flexible Action Plans
Trying to predict exact outcomes is futile! Instead, focus on building adaptable strategies.
Develop scenario planning. Think through different possible future scenarios and create basic action plans for each. What would you do if X happens? What about Y? This isn’t about predicting the future perfectly, but about building mental models that help you respond more effectively to change.
Establish trigger points for action. Over the years, I’ve noticed that more often than not, it takes a trigger to propel people into action.
Decide in advance what developments would prompt you to make specific changes. This helps avoid reactive decision-making during stressful times. For example, set clear markers for when you’ll update your budget, seek new employment opportunities, or make other significant changes.
Start with the Basics
Let’s start with you. Do you have a daily routine? While preparing for change, maintain consistent habits that ground you. Regular exercise, healthy eating patterns, and consistent sleep schedules provide a stable foundation during uncertain times.
Keep your support system strong. Regular check-ins with trusted friends and family members help maintain emotional balance and provide different perspectives on emerging challenges.
Sometimes the most effective preparation is simply maintaining good fundamental practices at home and work. Keep your important documents organized and accessible. This includes both physical and digital records.
Maintain healthy financial habits. Regular budget reviews, prudent saving, and careful spending serve you well in any scenario. Stay physically and mentally healthy. Regular exercise, good nutrition, and stress management are crucial components of overall resilience.
Photo by Brett Jordan: https://www.pexels.com
Preparation
Remember that change, while sometimes challenging, also brings opportunities. Start making changes by preparing thoughtfully while maintaining perspective, and you can approach the future with both readiness and optimism.
The key is to find the balance between preparation and presence – being ready for tomorrow while living fully today. Remembering this allows you to navigate change with grace while maintaining your peace of mind and personal well-being.
Hope you and yours had a nice Thanksgiving. Feel free to reach out or check out my website for resources to assist you with your preparation.
Send me an Email or Message if you have any questions. For additional information about my work check out @ The Living Planner or @ The Living Planner.
If you’re up for planning for your life’s administrative side, my book is a resource for you. The Living Planner What to Prepare Now While You Are Living © Check it out HERE.
Even amidst change, this quote is encouraging. “Your big opportunity may be right where you are now.” – Napolean Hill
Stay flexible❣️ Lynn
#PlanfortheUnplanned #Can’tPredictCanPrepare