All reflections · November 12, 2026

The smallest useful plan leaves room for a real person.

By Charles Botensten · iCharles

A plan can be logically sound and still have no room for the person following it. It assumes an even mood, uninterrupted time, and the ability to switch tasks without carrying anything from the last one. Then reality arrives and gets called poor execution.

Put a little uncertainty into the design. Leave time between demanding things. Decide what can move when someone needs you. You do not need to predict every disruption. You need a plan that can bend without making the whole day feel broken.

The smallest useful plan leaves room for a real person.

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