Do We Really "Trust the Process?"

There is More to It Than Just Words

Making progress is an essential life aspect. And as such, incorporating proper plans and routine activities into one’s life is critical in generally supporting the overall realization of the desired progress. In the recent past, there has been an evident rise in the phrase "Trust the Process." As simple as it seems, the phrase holds significant power, and with the daily demands, its application can influence positive outcomes. Despite the common usage, can one openly say that we should believe in their words, and as such, have faith when they say, "Trust the Process?" The onset of the phrase is attributed to the 76ers NBA team, which, by its usage, primarily indicated that "things may look bad now, but we have a plan in place to make them better." At the core of this statement are vital aspects that need a more profound understanding. This includes;

  1. Things look bad now.
  2. We have a plan in place.
  3. To make [things] better

Now, based on this simplified phrase, can we openly and vividly conclude that we ought to continue to "Trust the Process." This phrase supports the need to live a purpose-based life rather than everyday living without applying tools that can lead to better outcomes.

Phase # 1: "Things look bad now"

First, there is the understanding of the bad cases, weaknesses, and failures, or sometimes complications in life, currently facing us. However, rather than the inherent denial of ourselves, understanding these issues is key to shifting energy towards realizing better outcomes. "Trust the Process" must be accompanied by actions, and the culmination of all these simple actions has the power to contribute to the overall positive outcomes with massive implications. The shift from bad to better starts with understanding the problem and making an in-depth decision towards getting better. If denial arises, this can affect our ability to improve and apply measures in our daily lives to lead to better outcomes. Challenges exist [and this can sometimes be very frustrating]. However, our power lies in dealing with these problems and having an attitude that sees the future as better. It is a one-step at a time towards improvement.

Phase # 2: "We have a plan in place"

Reaching your goal is influenced by multiple factors, and one entails devising plans that will supplement this process and effectively contribute towards attaining the specified objectives. This is the power of planning, be it daily, monthly basis, or annually. Given the issue or bad situation mentioned in Phase #1, listing the underlying problem, the causal factors and then documenting what needs to be done is very useful for shifting from the "bad" situation and moving towards realizing better outcomes. This is an essential part of the process, and devising an in-depth and fact-based plan can make this process faster.

Planning is pivotal, and this means having a plan within a plan is also a good idea. One quote that helps depict the need for better planning and preparing for any eventualities that will undoubtedly arise comes from Moltke the Elder. As an expert in the battling field, there is the realization that uncertainties exist, which means developing options for adoption during the war is essential. The quote goes like this:

Bad situations arise. And issues will likely occur that will adversely affect the developed plan. As humans, realizing this likelihood helps us be prepared for any problem and thus act accordingly. I am not saying that each time, factors will arise that will hinder the plan. As a rational person, I say that preparing for the best while considering any uncertainties is essential. In shifting from the bad situation in Phase #1, there is a need to follow a devised plan and ensure the plan is going through. This is important towards realizing the outcome of Phase #3 ("To make [things] better"), which forms the epitome of happiness and satisfaction.

Phase #3: "To make [things] better"

Plans must be based on realizing specific outcomes; otherwise, there is no rational reason for taking time towards the planning process. As seen from Phase # 1, as life might bring things into our lives, they become or seem "bad." We have massive control over some of these things, some moderate power, while others may seem that we have entirely no control. These are the aspects of life and what makes life be what it is. In the third phase, realizing how things are bad and adopting a well-designed plan make it possible to recognize a better outcome. Things are bad, YES. Things are challenging, YES. Things are not as we wish. YES. All the cases and the different YES, YES, and YESES make the traditional livelihoods.

Although the scenarios arise, it is good to understand that if you accept how things are "BAD" and then take time to document an elaborate "PLAN," there is the potential to get better outcomes. At the end of the "Trust the Process," there is the aspect of "Making Things Better." Hence, this final aspect supports the need to have faith, apply plans and measures that will lead to better outcomes, and follow through with actions that support the overall results.

Conclusion

I believe we all have the power to "Trust the Process," and by doing so, we need to attach positive outcomes to the phrase. Making the shift towards better starts with our attitude and recognizing our bad aspects. All in all, this needs to be supplemented with an efficient plan that must be followed to the end. It is evident that, as we live, it is not always possible to have a smooth flow when faced with bad scenarios in life. Overall, exhibiting an optimistic mind and growing oneself with each arising opportunity helps have better outcomes.

In the end, “The Process Trusts Us” to see things through. Always.