Are you always on "a plan" when running? When you're not training for a particular race, do you still schedule your runs or are you more carefree about the distance you'll run that day?
In the last few years, I’ve always been on a plan. Two marathons a year covers most of that time. I usually come up with a couple mini-plans to fill in the gaps to train for shorter races.
I guess there’s two main reasons for this. First, I’m just built that way. I’m not exactly Mr Spontaneous. I do much better with tasks if they’re laid out and scheduled in all areas of my life. Probably not a surprise that I’m a computer programmer.
Second, I like to know that each run has a purpose. I’m not really out there just to run anymore. I’m working on speed, endurance, pacing, or recovery. The Hansons plan pattern has helped me with that. I just extend it into every week of the year now.
There’s nothing wrong with being carefree with your running. I’m sure people with different personality types would prefer that kind of approach. Whatever your motivation, find a way to get out there consistently and you’ll reap the rewards. Eventually you’ll learn what works and start to modify your approach to suit your goals.