One of my most significant observations of the last few months is that very few people provide adequate preparation time for important meetings or presentations.
The “It will be alright on the night” attitude is the strongest impression I gain when observing people speaking to a small team or a larger group.
Stop before you are stopped:
At a recent competition, five executives pitched their business ideas. Unfortunately, only two people adhered to the time they were allotted, which was five minutes. Despite being very experienced business executives, the other people went on for fifteen minutes before being brought to a halt, having been given several reminders.
An example of not properly preparing, while disrespecting the organisers and your audience.
Big Brother:
We all now have some form of a digital calendar on our devices, which reminds us of upcoming events, also allowing us to block out focus time, study time, preparation time etc.,
I am often annoyed when a computer starts telling me what to do before remembering that this was a plan set by me to ensure that I adhered to my commitment to respect my audience’s time or client commitment.
Busy Bees:
We’re all guilty of committing to doing too much. Or have too much imposed upon us by circumstances, or “the Boss”.
My advice:
Each day, review your week and block out time for preparation, research, and in particular, add time for creative renewal.
When should you do this? Early in the morning or in the evening; it’s your prerogative.
Are you a morning or evening person? Whichever you are, get into the habit of blocking out time for preparation, and your days and weeks will become far more relaxing, enjoyable, and full of more successful outcomes.
“Good luck is when opportunity meets preparation, while bad luck is when lack of preparation meets reality.” – Eliyahu Goldratt
P.S. Ensure you plan time with your family and friends as your TOP priority.
