The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins

This is the final entry in the Middle Way Planning series. Last November, I introduced this planning system to you. Then I showed you how you could create your own paper-based companion planner. Last month, I showed you how to use the two together. This month I want to address any questions you had on the system or its components.

When I put the call out for input, I hoped to have a list of 10–25 good questions, identifying holes I had not foreseen. Instead, most readers discussed the use of Mission Statements and Vision Statements. One question also addressed Roles and their use in planning. Therefore, this article has three sections: Roles, Mission Statements, and Vision Statements as they relate to the Middle Way Method.

I want to start this article with a question. Imagine you have a jar. In front of the jar are several bowls filled with rocks, pebbles, sand, and water. You are asked to fill the jar completely with all the items. What would you do?

Many people have seen this in team-building or prioritizing workshops. The answer is that you would put the large rocks in first. Then add the pebbles, shaking the jar so they fill the space between the rocks. Then pour in sand, allowing it to seep into all crevices. Lastly, pour water until the jar is full.

Roles

This “rocks, pebbles, sand, and water” metaphor is appropriate to the Middle Way. Your time is the jar. The rocks represent the most important commitments in your life—commitments to yourself and those you care about most. Mission and Vision Statements help you set and maintain priorities. Weekly review ensures you don’t forget these priorities as you fill your jar with sand and water.

Rocks may take the form of relationships (Roles). For example, maintaining family relationships requires you to schedule activities for your spouse and children weekly. Other rocks are commitments to yourself: physical health, spiritual development, mental growth, and social skills. Neglecting these can wash away your foundation if not planned for each week.

Mission Statements

In earlier posts, I left out how to develop a mission statement, as there are many resources available. Contributors like Doug, innowen, and myself have written on the topic. For the Middle Way, a mission statement doesn’t consume much weekly time—once developed, it guides your week.

Some readers have asked:

I have looked at many planning systems that include a “Mission Statement.”
Do you really need one?
I just want to get my life in order and accomplish tasks. Setting up an association or business might need it, but it seems a waste of time for personal organization. Am I wrong?

A mission statement must come from the heart; it cannot be found outside yourself. It reflects what matters most to you. Some find mission statements frustrating when they fail to connect personal values meaningfully. Others say:

I never understood the need for a mission statement. I tried to make one, but it felt silly, often copying examples.

This was my experience at first. I feared documenting my core values, especially spiritual or personal principles. Mission statements are deeply personal and should not be set in stone—you can change them as your life evolves.

Vision Statements

The vision statement helps you imagine your desired future. Find a quiet place, relax, and envision your life 2–5 years from now as a complete individual—having achieved your current goals and developed desired values. Capture these feelings in writing; this is your vision. Keep it close to guide and motivate you when discouraged.

I began writing this series hoping to make a difference, helping others solve problems and improve. I am grateful for everyone who read and shared feedback on the Middle Way Method. I look forward to hearing about your successes and answering questions.

Originally Posted to D*I*YPlanner.