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Being Spontaneous or Predictable — Which Do You Prefer? Do You Yearn For More?

When life is overwhelming, predictability gives stability like an anchor that keeps you from totally losing it.Predictability is safe. Some say it’s boring. Being spontaneous may be scary or thrilling. Predictability or spontaneity — which makes you feel most alive? Or do you need both?

When life is overwhelming, predictability gives stability like an anchor that keeps you from totally losing it. It creates calm in a world of chaos. At times like these, you’re tapping into the benefits of predictability:

  • Because you know what to expect and can prepare ahead of time, you stress less and can do things more efficiently.
  • Healthy routines of restorative sleep, nutritious eating and adequate exercise make it easier to function at your optimal level.
  • Predictability gives you a sense of confidence, comfort and control.

 What you can’t get from predictability is the unexpected, the surprise, or the challenge.  We need new experiences and opportunities to grow and feel fully alive. 

Does being spontaneous scare you?

You might say, “I’ve got enough anxiety in my life. I don’t need any more!” Yet, spontaneity doesn’t necessarily mean you’re leaping off of tall buildings on a whim. It simply means becoming mindfully aware of how you’re living and giving yourself a chance to discover something new about the world around you. 

Do you always get a double mocha latte? Ask for a suggestion from someone in line and try something new. (You’ll meet new people, too!) Always drive the same route to work? Leave earlier and explore another part of your neighborhood. Look for ways to mix it up and discover something new. You’ll find it deepens your anticipation and sparks more creativity!

Which do you prefer: spontaneity or predictability? “But I like my life like it is, Maria. Why would I want to mess it up?” I’m not asking you to mess anything up. What I am suggesting is that mindfulness can help you find small tweaks that can make you feel more balanced.

Don’t let fear of change or the busyness of life keep you from a fulfilling and beautiful life. Invite more awe into your life. You’ll also gain more confidence as you test your boundaries.

How much predictability and spontaneity you need is individual to you. What makes you feel most alive, grateful, and creative? Making the most of the life you have is so worth it. 

One thing I’ve seen in my clients is their struggle with the balance between spontaneity and predictability. Some of them want more predictability in their day-to-day life, but they fail to make plans because they don’t know what they want to do until they get there. Other clients want to be more spontaneous, but they tend to plan in advance because they feel anxious if they don’t. 

Extremes either way aren’t sustainable. Extremely predictable people are more easily controlled and used by manipulative people. And those who are always being spontaneous may damage personal and business relationships because this can be perceived as unreliable, self-centered and untrustworthy.  Achieving balance is the key. How?

The way to unlock your perfect formula of predictability and spontaneity is to recognize your natural preference and then integrate more of the other to create more balance between the two parts.

Your “Dream Big, Start Small” here’s the one thing you can do today.

The way to unlock your perfect formula of predictability and spontaneity is to recognize your natural preference and then integrate more of the other to create more balance between the two parts.

There are no right or wrong answers to this question: Predictable or Spontaneous — which are you? Without any judging, notice what your natural preference is. Are you more of a planner or do you tend to do things more on the spur of the moment? 

To deepen your understanding of yourself, notice what you get out of your preference.  Does one way make you feel comfortable, safe? Does the other make you feel more alive? Does it scare you? Again, no right or wrong answer, just notice how your body responds when you say, “I love predictability”. Do the same for “I love spontaneity.” 

Baby steps or tweaks to your thoughts, words and actions can, in time, create real transformation especially if you approach it from the mindset of enjoying each step of the journey.  Do you want help breaking your big dream into baby steps?

Imagine having a dedicated partner who deeply understands your goals, challenges, and vision. Together we can design a tailored development plan drawing from cutting-edge leadership principles and time-tested wisdom. If you’re ready to ditch limiting beliefs and embrace boundless possibilities, now is your moment. Through our engaged one-on-one sessions, you’ll gain profound insight, accountability, and the support you need to truly thrive. Book a 30-minute Unlock Your Potential free consultation with me, and let’s talk!

Photos by engin akyurt  and Luke Southern

Personal Growth - Professional Growth


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