Man looking up thinking about options represented by arrows

Escaping the Option Trap

June 29, 20234 min read

Explore the pitfalls of treating plans as options and the impact on personal growth. Learn practical strategies to establish clear objectives, set realistic deadlines, prioritize effectively, and maintain adaptability without sacrificing commitment.


If You Want Optional Results Treat The Plan Like An Option

In a world brimming with endless possibilities and distractions, it's easy to fall into the trap of treating plans as mere options. While flexibility and adaptability are valuable traits, there is a fine line between embracing spontaneity and succumbing to perpetual procrastination. In this blog post, we will explore the dangers that arise when plans are treated as options, derailing progress and hindering personal growth and keeping you from the results.

The Allure of Endless Options:

Treating plans as options may initially seem liberating, offering a sense of freedom from rigid structures. However, this approach often leads to a lack of commitment and focus. When plans are constantly deferred for the allure of other opportunities, or other tasks that "have" to get done, our objectives become perpetually distant and elusive.

1. The Procrastination Loop:

When plans are treated as options, it becomes all too easy to postpone action. We fall into a procrastination loop, constantly telling ourselves that there will be a better time to pursue our goals or that we need more information or resources. As a result, progress is stifled, and our dreams are left unrealized.

2. Missed Opportunities:

By continuously putting off plans in favor of other things, we risk missing out on valuable opportunities. Time and circumstances are constantly evolving, and the perfect alignment of factors may never come. By treating plans as options indefinitely, we deny ourselves the chance to seize the moment and make meaningful progress towards our goals.

3. Lack of Personal Accountability:

When plans are treated as options, accountability wanes. The absence of a clear commitment to a plan means there are no concrete milestones or deadlines to hold ourselves accountable to. As a result, motivation dwindles, and we become susceptible to distractions and the allure of short-term gratification, further impeding our progress.

4. Stagnation and Regret:

Procrastination and perpetual indecision lead to stagnation. As time passes, we may find ourselves trapped in a cycle of regret, reflecting on missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential. The very goals and dreams we once held dear may fade away, overshadowed by a sense of complacency and resignation.

Breaking Free from the Option Trap

While treating plans as options can be detrimental, it doesn't mean we should abandon flexibility altogether. Instead, we must strike a balance that allows for adaptability while maintaining a sense of commitment and forward momentum.

1. Define Clear Objectives:

Start by clearly defining your goals and aspirations. Establish a concrete plan that outlines the necessary steps to achieve them. By creating a roadmap with specific milestones, you provide yourself with a tangible framework for progress.

2. Set Realistic Deadlines:

To avoid falling into the procrastination loop, set realistic deadlines for each milestone. Hold yourself accountable to these deadlines, understanding that progress requires consistent effort and action. Understand you may not hit that deadline perfectly, but you'll be a hell of a lot closer on that date!

3. Prioritize and Focus:

While it's tempting to chase after every enticing option, learn to prioritize and focus on what truly matters. Evaluate opportunities carefully and align them with your overarching objectives, values and the version of yourself you want to become. Stay mindful of distractions that may divert your attention from your primary plan.

4. Embrace Adaptability:

Though plans should not be treated as mere options, it is essential to remain adaptable in the face of unexpected circumstances or necessary adjustments. Embrace change when it aligns with your long-term goals, but be discerning in distinguishing between genuine opportunities and distractions in disguise.

Treating your plan as an options can lead to a perpetual cycle of procrastination, missed opportunities, and stagnation. However, by striking a balance between flexibility and commitment, we can avoid the frustration that procrastinating brings. Establishing clear objectives, setting deadlines, prioritizing, and maintaining focus will empower us to make progress towards our goals.


If you’re ready to take that next step, whether it’s through personalized coaching or having access to on-demand workouts at your fingertips, I’m here to help you. The option is yours!

Want personalized support? Let’s work together to create a plan that fits your lifestyle. Or, if you’re looking for flexibility, my new on-demand app offers workouts and resources you can access anytime. Plus, you get a 7-day free trial, so there’s no risk! Both options are designed to meet you where you are and help you make progress in a way that works for you.

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Whatever you choose, the most important thing is that you take that first step. You don’t have to do this alone.

Kennie Q Story is the owner of The Movement Health & Fitness LLC and has been training and coaching for 20+ years. He has served in gym management for over 14 years and has a passion for serving the LGBTQ+ community and allies.

Coach Kennie Q. Story

Kennie Q Story is the owner of The Movement Health & Fitness LLC and has been training and coaching for 20+ years. He has served in gym management for over 14 years and has a passion for serving the LGBTQ+ community and allies.

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