After I recently graduated from Computer Science, I began applying for jobs in a somewhat low-key manner. With some side jobs covering my expenses, there was no rush, and I didn’t feel pressured. I had a simple plan: always have three job applications in progress at any given time. This approach kept me moving forward. The consistency of this strategy played a crucial role in maintaining my momentum during the job search process.

However, about a month ago, I came across an opportunity that I was particularly enthusiastic about. The job seemed like the perfect fit, and I couldn’t help but get my hopes up. When I was invited for the first interview, I was thrilled. The interview seemed to go well, and I allowed myself to believe that this could be the job. My enthusiasm, however, led me to make a critical mistake—I abandoned my plan.

I have not heard from this interview in weeks, and my hopes of becoming the selected candidate are dwindling. It took me a while, but early this week I have been able to admit to myself that I made a mistake in abandoning my plan.

It occurred to me while listening to an entirely unrelated audiobook about growing a business. The author of the book mentions these wise words in passing: “hope is not a strategy”. It’s tempting to lean on hope, but when it comes to achieving real results, a simple plan—no matter how basic—outshines wishful thinking every time.

Why Hope Alone Falls Short

Hope is a powerful emotion. It keeps us optimistic and encourages us to persevere through challenges. However, when we rely on hope alone, we risk falling into complacency. Hope, without a plan, is like setting out on a journey without a map. You might get lucky and arrive at your destination, but chances are you’ll get lost along the way.

In my case, hoping for that one job offer led me to pause my efforts elsewhere. I stopped applying and in doing so, I gave up control over my job search. The same principle applies to any goal in life: if you rely solely on hope, you’re leaving too much up to chance.

The Power of a Simple Plan

On the other hand, a simple, strategic plan—no matter how basic—provides structure and direction. A plan gives you something to work on, something that keeps you moving forward even when things aren’t going exactly as you hoped. It turns your goals into actionable steps, transforming vague aspirations into concrete outcomes.

My job-hunting strategy, which involved maintaining three active applications, was simple yet effective. It ensured that I was constantly taking action, consistently progressing toward my goal. When I deviated from that plan, I found myself stuck, waiting and hoping instead of making measurable progress.

Applying This Principle Beyond Job Hunting

This principle applies far beyond the realm of job hunting. Whether you’re working on personal growth, pursuing a creative project, or trying to achieve a work-life balance, having a plan is crucial. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. In fact, the simpler, the better. The key is that it keeps you engaged and focused, allowing you to take consistent steps toward your goals.

There are two important factors to keep in mind:

1. Measurability: It should be clear when you are acting in line with your plan. In my job-hunting example, it is very clear when I adhere to the plan—I simply check the number of applications I have running. Three or more? Great! Less? Get applying! Measurable actions create accountability and momentum.
2. Process-Focused: A goal such as “I will have a job by the first of November” focuses on the outcome. And it is an outcome that is not fully within my control. What is in my control is the number of applications I send out. Focusing on the process rather than the outcome is a key principle in self-improvement and personal development.

For example, if your goal is to improve your physical health, your plan might be as simple as committing to a 30-minute walk every day. If you’re aiming to write a book, your plan could be writing 100 words daily. These small, consistent actions compound over time, leading to significant results.

Conclusion: Plan Over Hope

While hope is an essential part of life—it keeps us motivated and optimistic—it should never be mistaken for a strategy. A simple, actionable plan, on the other hand, can keep you on track, help you make steady progress, and ultimately lead you to success. So, the next time you find yourself relying solely on hope, remember to pair it with a plan. After all, it’s not about abandoning hope but about empowering it with action.

If you found this post helpful, I’d love to hear from you! Please like, share, and subscribe to stay updated with more insights on personal growth and achieving your goals. And don’t forget to leave a comment below—what strategies do you use to keep moving forward? Your input could inspire someone else to take that next step! 🫴🏽💚

Photo by Marc-Olivier Jodoin on Unsplash