Why "Life Back-Ups" Are Holding You Back

Life is unpredictable. It’s easy to find ourselves balancing multiple plans: A, B, and C, and thinking that we’re covered no matter which direction things take. But what if we’re making a critical mistake by always holding on to Plan B? What if Plan A could succeed if only we let go of the safety net of Plan B?

The Trap of Having a Plan B

When we embark on a goal or pursuit, whether it’s a career change, a personal transformation, or even something as simple as a fitness journey, it’s natural to want to have a backup plan. After all, Plan A may not work out. What if the job doesn’t come through? What if the relationship doesn’t last? What if the dream isn’t realized? These uncertainties often lead us to create a “Plan B,” just in case.

Well, here’s the catch: when we have a Plan B, we’re subconsciously telling ourselves that Plan A isn’t fully reliable. This mindset affects our commitment, motivation, and ability to take bold action. If you’re only half-in on Plan A because you’re keeping one foot in Plan B, you’ll never give your primary plan the attention and focus it truly needs. In a way, you cheat life by betting on everything and not fully trusting or committing to anything with all your heart.

Maintaining a backup plan keeps us tethered to doubt. Our minds are wired for safety and certainty, so having a backup gives us comfort but also divides our attention. You can’t fully invest your energy and focus into something if you don’t believe it’s your only option. It’s like trying to juggle two balls at once: your energy gets divided between them, and neither gets the full attention it deserves.

Imagine trying to push forward in your career while secretly knowing you’re prepared to jump ship if things don’t go according to plan. Or picture yourself trying to make a lifestyle change, but with an "out" ready to go. In both cases, you’re sabotaging your success by doubting the plan you’ve committed to. The reality is, Plan B is the real backup because it keeps you from living in the fullness of Plan A.

Letting Go of Plan B: The Power of Full Commitment

To experience true growth, we must allow ourselves the vulnerability of putting all our chips on Plan A. This doesn’t mean ignoring reality or pretending failure isn’t a possibility, it means fully committing to the process of Plan A without hedging your bets. It is tough, but I’m sure you can recall a time in your life when you were fully in on something. The energy and intensity that comes from total commitment is unforgettable.

This is where mindfulness and emotional resilience come in. Letting go of Plan B requires emotional strength. It requires trusting that failure isn’t the end of the road - it’s part of the process. It requires knowing that success isn’t about avoiding risks, but about taking the leap fully, without hesitation. This is the moment when the magic happens: when we stop being distracted by the "what-ifs" and focus all our energy on the goals we want to pursue.

Once you choose to leave Plan B behind, you also make a critical mental shift: You stop viewing Plan A as a "backup" plan and instead see it as the only plan that matters. This shift in perspective is incredibly empowering. It frees you from doubt, indecision, and fear. When you fully embrace Plan A, the stakes feel higher but so does your focus, motivation, and drive to succeed.

The Magic of Full Commitment

Letting go of Plan B doesn’t mean you won’t experience setbacks or challenges. It means you’re committing fully to the process - no distractions, no contingency plans. And that’s where the magic of success happens. You’ll likely encounter moments of doubt, fear, and resistance along the way, but when you’re all-in on Plan A, you’ll be better equipped to face these obstacles. You’ll find creative solutions, push through moments of discomfort, and ultimately succeed in ways you never could have if you were still relying on Plan B.

No matter what you do in life, the essence of growth is rooted in full commitment. If you want to accomplish something meaningful, whether it’s a career shift, a personal goal, or a dream project, you need to stop letting "Plan B" hold you back. The truth is that the minute you let go of that backup plan, your energy, focus, and effort will go fully into Plan A. This commitment fuels your growth and success, propelling you toward your desired outcome with clarity and confidence.

Let go of your Plan B, trust in your Plan A, trust in yourself and in life and watch the magic unfold.