IELTS WRITING: FUTURE VS PRESENT? Could you give me some feedbacks on this piece of writing?

Some people consider that planning for the future is a waste of time and that it is more important to focus on the present. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards”. That saying on the importance of future planning is as old as tales and somewhat shapes our outlook on the boundary of future and present. However, some opponents of this saying claim that planning for the future is a lost cause and the focus should be redirected to the present time. In my opinion, future planning should not be treated with derision, such planning is the prerequisite to success in many fields; however, focusing on the present should also be promoted.

On the one hand, some people greet future planning with dismissal but I believe it is of great import to make plans for the future. We as humans set ourselves certain goals and have dreams to strive towards in a bid to develop a sense of purpose and direction in our lives. In order for any ambitions to actually come true, it is of paramount importance to draw out a plan. This is the fact that many opponents of the mentioned saying fail to factor in concerning the importance of planning acts. Failure to have a direct plan would act as a stumbling block for pursuers in the quest of success. Many high-profile celebrities, for example, would definitely regard planning as the key element contributing to their success. However, due to the unpredictability of the future, a backup plan is also a must when things do not go according to expectation.

On the other hand, however, focusing on the present also has the same weight as planning for tomorrows. We cannot for sure know exactly how long we would live, so it is important to cherish every moment currently present and live life to the fullest. Furthermore, some of the future elements have a strong root in the present time, and only by maintaining focus on the present could we make wise future decisions, especially towards life-changing events. For example, without loving a person at first touch, could we ever dream of marrying them in the future? Marriage, as the name suggests, could act as a metamorphosis towards our lives, and that way “present-gratifying” decisions should be deeply pondered.

In conclusion, I believe a balance between planning for the future and focusing on the present would be ideal.