Minnesota is known for its brutal winters. This past weekend was no exception. It was a brisk 3(F) degrees with a windchill factor of -9. That cold blast did not stop me from my weekend walk in the woods with my dog Mabel (not pictured with me as she was off exploring the smells). When I moved from Texas back to Minnesota almost 15 years ago, I determined that I was not going to let the weather prevent me from doing the things I love. One of which is hiking outdoors. In order for me to do this successfully, I have to be prepared and have the right equipment: down coat, hat, scarf, boots, outdoor hiking pants, and my newest addition – heated gloves (love them). Because I am prepared, I can successfully navigate the frigid temps and enjoy my walks despite the weather. The sun was shining that day and we had a wonderful time. It got me thinking about preparation in business and the importance of it.
Do you have the right equipment to be successful in your work? Some examples to consider….
How do you prepare for team meetings? Do you just show up and handle what comes at you? Or do you review the agenda in advance and consider what you need to bring with you, what questions you may have, and what would you like to get out of the meeting?
If you are organizing the meeting, have you completed an agenda and sent it out in advance to participants so they can do their best work by preparing for the meeting?
Do you prepare for the day ahead of you, or just handle what comes your way and allow the day to manage you?
How much time do you spend reflecting on your day and considering ways it went well and/or could have gone better?
Have you put time into your own education and self-development so you have updated knowledge/information/equipment (like my new heated gloves)?
With the fast pace most of us operate under, we often neglect the value of preparation. I admit I can be guilty of overlooking the importance of it. It requires us to slow down, think, plan, and be disciplined in our work. However, the value of doing so, far outweighs the alternative.
Consider for yourself; in what ways are you “walking out the door without the right equipment?” What would help you be better prepared, and what are you willing to commit to? I’d love your thoughts.