The presidency of Barack Obama has lacked long term planning from the very beginning. If one were a head of state, one would chart the best course of action for the entire term, which would do the maximum amount of good, with the least amount of damage to the populace. An immediate understanding would be there, that some choices are too risky and financially damaging to undertake and one must pace one's self. 

President Obama has received very poor counsel from his advisors, who have embraced a policy of live for the day. Ironically, many of these same advisors have jumped ship. Political planning is essential to anyone in office. It not only sets goals, but limits as well, to create an environment of responsibility, accountability and productiveness.