Stop for a moment and think about what you would consider to be your opportunity of a lifetime. If that opportunity were to knock on your door today, would you be prepared to take advantage of it? Or, would your dream opportunity create a mad dash to set your house in order--lose weight, get your finances in order, seek professional training, clear out clutter, create time and space?
One of the primary reasons people miss out on opportunities is because they're not prepared. When a couple decides to have a baby, they don't just sit around talking about it. After conception takes place, the couple begins preparing for their expected arrival. They don't wait until the baby arrives and then erupt into a panic about the major details. They prepare the nursery, select names, attend baby showers, pre-natal classes and other activities. Finally, after nine months they welcome their new bundle of joy.
Why is preparation so important? Here are three key reasons:
1. Preparation creates optimum experience. You can impact the outcome of your experience if you prepare in advance. As a nation, America was caught off guard on September 11, 2001. Today we are on high alert with beefed up security and have since instituted a homeland security commission.
Similarly, we were not ready for Hurricane Katrina. According to reports, it was predicted long beforehand that those levees would break if they were not fortified. Reportedly, that warning went unheeded and we saw what happened. Of course, hindsight is always 20/20. As speaker and author, Denis Waitley is quoted saying, "expect the best, plan for the worst and prepare to be surprised."
2. Preparation gives you an advantage. Heaven forbid if your were interviewing for a highly competitive position and had no prior experience to perform in such capacity.
It also would not be wise to go on a job interview without any prior knowledge about the company or industry. When asked a question, you'd likely sit there with a deer-in-the-headlights look on your face. Not only would you not get the job, but it would probably be a very short interview! When you're prepared, you're more confident, and confidence is like a magnet. It draws and engages people.
3. Preparation helps to eliminate fear. That's why we have burglar bars and alarm systems installed in our homes. They make us feel safe. They help to put our minds at ease.
Likewise, you might find yourself in a situation where you're a bit nervous about a presentation you're scheduled to deliver, which is not uncommon. If you do not take the time to prepare in advance, your speech will likely be disjointed and lack confidence.
The best opportunities are reserved for those who will take the time to prepare themselves. If you have a passion, dream or assignment before you now, I encourage you to start preparing for a successful outcome so that when it's your time, all you'll need to do is step into the moment! Abraham Lincoln said, "I will prepare and someday my chance will come."
** As an entrepreneur, author, speaker and professional coach, I empower women to confront their challenges and achieve extraordinary outcomes. For a complimentary download of "Ten Fundamental Truths You Must Believe to Transform Your Dream Into Reality, visit http://www.rebecca-mcclain.com **