Natural planning model outlines everything from purpose to tactics.

“Natural” does not imply “common”, but rather “logical”. 5 steps:rA1

  1. Defining purpose and principles: purpose = direction while principles = parameters of action and criteria for conduct. What boundaries will give people freedom?
  2. Vision & outcome: clear orientation toward the desired end state.
  3. Brainstorming: ideas about approach.
  4. Organizing: breaking down into sequenced, prioritized components.
  5. Next action.

Unnatural planning model tries to skip steps.


  1. David Allen, Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity, Revised edition (New York City: Penguin Books, 2015). (See notes.)