I’m starting to get sailing.

It’s funny to write that at the end of December when our boat is up on poppets at the boatyard and will be for months. But it’s true, I’m starting to figure it out.

I used to think that the boat went in the direction that the wind is blowing. But that’s what would happen in a boat with no rudder (and no keel).

In all of the years I wanted to write or practice music consistently but didn’t, I don’t think it was a lack of self-discipline.

After all, I wanted to do these things. And I did many other difficult things that I hadn’t wanted to do.

So what was the problem?

Prioritization. I spent all my time doing those other things.

I have a tendency to slow down when things are going well.

It as though I’m heading off the highway and into a small, sleepy town. I have the sense that I’ve arrived at my destination. It’s 25 mph here, not 70. I wind through the streets, slowly taking turn after familiar turn.

That’s fine if I’m actually there. But more often than not, I’m not. I’m slowing down and exiting when I still have miles and miles to go.

I’ve observed that many high-achieving creatives, leaders, and business owners have a dirty little secret: They struggle with planning.

They rely on a clear vision, external accountability, or both in order to successfully navigate professional life.

And sometimes they pull all-nighters or all-weekenders in order to make up for the missing plan.