Sunday Thoughts (ready for anything)

Let’s start today with some questions to ponder. 

What does it mean to be “prepared?” (Shout out to the former Boys and Girls Scouts out there.)

Is it the same as being “ready?”

If they’re not the same, what can you do to make sure you’re both prepared and ready when the time comes?

And maybe most important, what does it mean to be prepared… for you?

To me, there is a difference between prepared and ready. Being prepared means doing the work, taking the steps in advance so you have a plan and can execute if you need it. 

But being ready is more internal. It’s about how you feel, your emotions, your ability to respond, recognize what’s happening, and act in the moment. 

If you knew you had to make a presentation in a month, you could do all kinds of research, review the topic, take notes, pull together some cards to guide you, and even decide what you’re going to wear so you look professional.

But when the time comes, are you in the right frame of mind to speak clearly and effectively, without seizing up? 

It’s clear that the more prepared you are, the more ready you will be. 

This applies to big things and small things. And the more you do to prepare, the calmer you are, the more peace of mind you feel. 

Which will help you be ready. 

Being prepared means eliminating surprises. Gaining control. And having things turn out in your favor. 

In today’s world, it sure feels like things are out of control. And in large part, they are, for all of us.

You can’t control the weather. You can’t control the economy. You can’t control what anyone around you says or does. 

But you can prepare for what a bad storm, or inflation, or food shortages, or new variants of a virus, mean for you, in your life. 

You can take steps to eliminate worries about the future, knowing you’re prepared if things go south. 

And if you do, if have faith… you’ll be ready.

After moving to Florida, part of the “Hurricane Belt,” I learned quickly what it means to be prepared. Batteries and a generator in case of power outages. A plan in case we had to evacuate. Supplies for myself, my wife, and even the dog. 

But having at least a weekend’s worth of shelf-stable food is critical no matter where you live.

It’s a small step towards being prepared. (And it’s so easy to make, it won’t be long before your food is as ready as you are.)

Enjoy the rest of your weekend.