Preparation Paves the Way for EQUIP World Relay

“Preparation positions people correctly, and it is often the separation between winning and losing. Talent-plus people who prepare well live by this motto: ‘All’s well that begins well.’”1

All leaders possess talent, but having the ability to recognize the power of preparation and “beginning well” is critical to getting the desired end result and the buy in of those around us.
How do you take time to evaluate what is ahead? What important questions need to asked in order to define what success means and what we need to be successful? Answer those and you have a higher chance of achieving that goal.

In Beyond Talent, John Maxwell explains that “Preparation doesn’t begin with what you do. It begins with what you believe. If you believe that your success tomorrow depends on what you do today, then you will treat today differently… If you are preparing today, chances are, you will not be repairing tomorrow.”2

With many roles and tasks to fulfill, the challenge is fighting the urge to cross items off too quickly. Constant workflow means that we don’t have time to repair, so we must prepare as best as possible.

This mantra rings true for EQUIP Leadership, John Maxwell’s nonprofit organization which recently launched the EQUIP World Relay. The 2,400-mile relay to the nation of Guatemala kicked off on Monday, March 4 with plans to walk approximately 22 miles each day within a 101-day timeframe until reaching Guatemala City – all in the name of transformational leadership.

John Hull, President and CEO of EQUIP Leadership, has been preparing heavily for the relay in mind, spirit and body leading up to Monday’s kick-off. In fact, John walked approximately 20 miles a day for more than 6 months with times of rest in between. His daily focus and intentionality in preparing for the walk is what has enabled the vision to grow beyond himself – showing that leadership starts with “me” and ends with “we.”

His thoughtful preparation and well-articulated vision enabled leaders around him to make a “larger than life” goal a reality. Transformational leadership invites leaders in each of the seven streams of influence (business, government, education, arts, media, church and family) to intentionally engage in society. Without preparation, we continue down our own separate paths with no collaboration. Someone has to take a step back and prepare for change.

Are you preparing for positive transformation in your organization, community, business and even home? Have no doubt that that level of leadership will spill over and the ripple effect will be one much greater than your daily task list.

“If you want to take advantage of opportunities to use your talent, then you must be prepared when the opportunities arise. Once the opportunity presents itself, it’s too late to get ready.”

Today, write down a list of ways you can prepare yourself for the next opportunity to go beyond talent to serve as a transformational leader. Share with us below or on Facebook or Twitter using #BeyondTalent.

To find out more information and learn how to get involved in the EQUIP World Relay, visit: http://equipworldrelay.org. Be sure to follow the EQUIP World Relay team on Twitter at @EQUIPWorldRelay.

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1 Beyond Talent, pg. 83
2 Beyond Talent, pg. 97
3 Beyond Talent, pg. 96