I find it more useful to specify a direction rather than a path. I'll often re-assess my goals for the next 5-10 years and evaluate whether I'm on the right track. It's more like a "join the dots" activity for me. How do I get from point A to point B in given amount of time t? Is it feasible? Have I been working enough to get to point B in t months/years? There are some things that can't be avoided (stick to the path), but there are also many decisions which allow for spontaneity. As dad says, pick something, make the most of it, never look back.