I think the title of this one says it all. A lesson in leadership — not necessarily business leadership, but leading in social occasions:

You can plan good times. The best times just happen.

I think these words a lot, but especially during the Manila trip that ended up going to Boracay. Looking back I see I specifically didn’t plan any details of what to do in Manila before arriving. I just contacted the people involved and made sure we had flexibility in the schedule. Then when the Boracay opportunity arose, I knew we could do it.

The result? The vacation of  a lifetime providing memories that will endure forever. At a low cost for that matter.

Actually, I should specify: the best times just happen when you know how to identify opportunities and make them happen. That means understanding what groups of people will mix well, what activities will bring them together, and so on. Developing those skills takes practice and experience failing. Not many people are willing to fail on many occasions.

I use that observation to relax about planning things. Maybe I miss out on good times because I don’t plan, but the benefit is that the free time I have from letting go of some opportunities for good times frees my schedule for great times.

And you have to say no to a lot of good things to have a great life.

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