However, we also need to consider politics, the usual bugbear of any rational plan.

FORBES: Vodafone and the Bureau of Investigative Journalism

But a rational plan for slimming should be based on the needs of the future, not the misdeeds of the past.

ECONOMIST: Chile

We look to the predictors to tell us what to do, instead of relying on a rational plan based on our long and short-term objectives and goals.

FORBES: Separating Prediction From Fact

The looming sequester, which would slash spending across the government, was created by both parties, after the failure of the Grand Bargain, in 2011, as a purposely odious policy, in order to force the two sides to reach a more rational plan to reduce long-term deficits.

NEWYORKER: The House of Pain

Likewise, investors that tip the scale in favor of guts over brains take on excessive risk without a rational, thought out plan.

FORBES: What Is Your Guts-to-Brains Ratio?

Bankers would say it is much harder for them to set their budgets and plan where to invest in a rational way if the tax rate keeps changing every few months.

BBC: Autumn Statement: Bankers hit by third levy increase