Prepare to Win

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

When inspiration hits the road it may cause irritation if one does not understand the processes of life. When I told you about 4 ways to find your Sweet Spot I was yet to experience the Preparation Stage. While I don't arrive at my goal, I benefit from fully preparing. I have always enjoyed hearing about professional athletes and their training process. I recently heard this amazing quote:
"The will to win is nothing without the will to prepare to win." 
Juma Ikangaa, multiple marathon winner from Tanzania.
No one accidentally crosses a finish line in a marathon. A lot of training goes into it but first comes the will to prepare.
How is your will when it comes to preparing for your Sweet Spot? Are you finding the process frustrating? If you are, let me encourage you to find the value of Preparation.
Let's stay with the marathon example. In order for an athlete to finish a marathon and even win it, he or she needs to be serious about training. It includes logging in hours of long distance running, resting and eating nutritional food while everyone else is feasting on fried oreos. The athlete has a purpose and the will to prepare to win must be strong and consistent.
The Bible also has some great examples of being prepared. One of my favorites is found in the book of Proverbs:
"The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their food for the summer." 
Proverbs 30:25
Even ants get the preparation concept. They consistently prepare for the summer and they do not suffer from stress when summer comes because they are ready for it. I often ask myself if I will be ready when my opportunity knocks. I believe that if I take my Preparation Stage seriously I will. The only people qualified to answer to opportunity's knock are the ones who are prepared.
Today I want to encourage you to enjoy your Preparation Stage. Whatever your Sweet Spot is, you will find that crossing your finish line will be rewarding as you diligently prepare for it.

QUESTION: How are you currently preparing to fully operate on your Sweet Spot?
NEXT ON THIS SERIES: Help is on the Way: the role of Coaches

Previously in this Series:
4 Ways to Find your Sweet Spot