Why do I get so upset when things don't go according to my plan?
Perfectionism & Control Issues
Upset over plan changes often reflects anxiety about uncertainty and a belief that you need control to feel safe.
Getting extremely upset when things don't go according to plan usually indicates that you're using planning and control as a way to manage Anxiety disorder about uncertainty. When your carefully laid plans get disrupted, it can feel like your safety net has been pulled away, triggering intense emotions that seem disproportionate to the actual situation. This reaction often develops from past experiences where unpredictability led to negative consequences, or from growing up in chaotic environments where planning felt like the only way to maintain some sense of control. The belief underlying this reaction is often 'If I can just plan everything perfectly, I can prevent bad things from happening.' While planning is generally a good thing, rigid Attachment theory to plans can make you fragile when life inevitably throws curveballs. Start building flexibility by intentionally introducing small changes to your routine and noticing that you can handle them. Practice the skill of adapting and problem-solving when plans coping with change rather than just feeling upset. Develop backup plans and contingencies so you feel more prepared for disruptions. Work on accepting that uncertainty is a natural part of life, and that your ability to adapt and respond is often more valuable than your ability to predict and control. If plan disruptions consistently trigger intense Anxiety disorder or anger management, consider whether you might benefit from Psychotherapy to address the underlying fears driving this reaction.