Prepared to Lead, Positioned to Succeed

The day you plant the seed is not the day you reap the harvest. Not only that, but you have to continue watering the seed in order for it to grow, and you may need to prune it at some point. The same applies to our own growth and development. One training, one book, or one inspirational speech can be the spark that ignites our desire to improve, but on their own, none of these will effectively prepare us for what is to come. When we are committed to continuous learning as leaders, we position ourselves to succeed at higher levels.

Leadership skills are developed by building upon them, and there is not an overnight trick for becoming a great leader. It takes time and dedication, but the more we prepare ourselves, the easier it becomes. We eventually reach a flow state where the more we do, the more we will know, and the more we know, the more we can do. We unlock new opportunities because as we grow, our potential grows with us.

There are many benefits that result from being prepared, most notably that it builds competence and thus confidence. It also reduces stress because we are better able to overcome challenges, leading to more informed decision making and increased productivity. We can manage our time more effectively because we typically know what needs to be done or at least how we should approach novel situations.

I grew up in a family with several Boy Scouts, and their motto is, “Be prepared.” I have applied this to my own life in many ways, often overpacking for trips and stuffing my purse full of items that I may or may not need one day but that would be helpful if I do. This motto does not just refer to being physically prepared for certain situations, though; it also means to be mentally prepared. The brain is a muscle, and when we exercise it regularly, we build on its strength. You do not have to be a Scout to believe in being prepared. Leaders across all industries should adopt this mindset. After all, we prepare for interviews, evaluations, meetings, and more. It only makes sense that we incorporate that same level of commitment into preparing for a leadership role.

While the results of your hard work may not be seen immediately, know that your efforts are never wasted. Keep investing in your development, keep learning, and keep growing. Because when you are prepared to lead, you position yourself to succeed.

-Meghan Slaughter