I’m married to a planner. I have become well versed in scoping the landscape and communicating to my wife all the possible things that could happen. Many of these things don’t end up happening, but the love of my life appreciates me being her eyes and ears.

The reason that books like “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” are bestsellers is that all of us have a little planner inside of us. We know what it feels like to be put on the spot or be surprised and unprepared to react. We all have comical stories relating to our unprepared responses and reactions.

Now, the reality is, is that surprises are just a normal part of life. We can’t predict every potential outcome we face, but if we are in regular conversation about the good, the bad, and the ugly, we start to train or prepare ourselves because surprises are normal.

The ultimate goal is not to be surprised by surprises. No rise in your blood pressure, no feeling the need to go off-script, but rather referring back to conversations with your safari guide (advisor) about the importance of staying the course.

Clarity around expectations and regular communication about the range of potential outcomes. That’s it.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• http://thoughtsonmoney.com