When planners go bad (or sad)

I’m back.

 

I know, you'd have thought Campaign would have come to their sense after last month, but no—they’ve asked me to do it again. Fools.

 

So I’m a planner.

 

Yes, I know, for some people—my parents, for example—that is like admitting your life has been one massive disappointment. But I obviously don’t subscribe to that point of view.

 

That said, I do think planners can be their own worst enemy—doing or saying stuff that confuses and alienates rather than brings clarity or purpose. So given Campaign have kindly given me another opportunity to spout my nonsense, I thought I’d take this opportunity to try and help change that.

 

The thing is, there are many types of planners. So rather than try and cover off all types in one go, I thought—if Campaign lets me get away with it—i’d use the next few months to focus on each different type.

 

Below are 11 ‘clues’ on spotting what I call, the ‘intellectual wannabe’ planner.

 

While they’re generally nice and harmless, they can—if not treated—end up being a danger to business and creativity. So if you spot any of these traits in yourself (or you’re working with someone who acts this way) act now before it’s too late.

Got it?

 

Excellent. All that leaves me to say is good luck with your treatment / intervention and I’ll see you soon with my clues on how to spot a hipster planner.

 

That is, unless Campaign come to their senses.

 

Rob Campbell is regional head of strategy for Wieden+Kennedy, based in Shanghai.

 

This article first appeared on www.campaignasia.com