The basics of preparation are well-known to good leaders and top performers.
We don’t consider ourselves prepared for any event, situation, or upcoming performance until we establish the goals we want to achieve and have settled on the strategy and tactics that will enable us to succeed. Having a clear plan of action for any performance is Preparation 101.
Before we can embark on this plan, we must gather the necessary tools, information, and support required to increase the odds of success.
Highly prepared leaders and performers hold themselves to a very high standard of precision when it comes to these resources, especially regarding information, facts, and data. A more complete picture of the performance depends upon a more complete set of details and facts.
Highly prepared performers don’t leave anything to chance. Their preparation includes knowing and understanding whatever information or facts they will need to rely on in order to succeed.
In many cases, this involves fully appreciating the history, origin story, or background of the people and elements involved. No wonder effective preparation takes so much time.
When time allows, rehearsing the steps of the plan and practicing the actions required to execute it will give the performer the confidence they need to excel.
Preparing through practice doesn’t ensure success or high performance, but it markedly increases the odds. The more dry runs, the better. As long as they don’t occur too close to performance time. Performers need to let the mind absorb the preparation before putting their hard work into action.
Being fully prepared also includes pre-deciding the best course of action in case things don’t go as planned. Recognizing the possible contingencies, even those unlikely to happen, and knowing the preferred response goes hand-in-hand with being ready. Knowing how to mitigate risks and challenges is a part of any solid game plan.
What is less known about skilled preparation is the benefit many performers derive from visualization. Imagining yourself succeeding not only promotes confidence, but also creates muscle and intellectual memory that enhances performance.
Creating a vivid mental picture of the desired outcomes which incorporates as many senses as possible prepares the mind for success. Coupled with visualizing the feelings associated with achievement, high performers create a positive emotional connection to their goals that serves them well during performance.
Before you conclude you are fully prepared for an upcoming situation or performance, consider incorporating visualization into your practice sessions. Until you can “see” what you want to have happen and the steps you need to execute to achieve your goals, you’re not completely prepared.
Make it a part of your preparation strategy and watch your focus during performance rise to a new level.
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