The Power of Preparation

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August 22, 2024

The Power of Preparation: Transforming Anxiety into Confidence

Inspired by: Jodie Cook

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-cook/   https://coachvox.ai/

Jodie Cook

The Power of Preparation

Preparation is the unsung hero in the story of success. Many people find themselves crippled by anxiety before a big presentation, meeting, or event, but this anxiety is often not a reflection of inherent inadequacy—it’s a symptom of under preparedness. The reality is that most individuals underestimate the level of intensity and effort required to perform well, often attributing the success of high performers to luck or natural talent. However, what truly sets these individuals apart is not an inherent gift, but their dedication to preparation.

Consider the analogy of an athlete. Olympians are not just born; they are crafted through years of rigorous training, discipline, and, most importantly, preparation. They do not merely show up on the day of competition hoping to perform well—they prepare far beyond what seems necessary. This intense preparation eliminates anxiety, replacing it with the confidence that comes from knowing they have done everything possible to succeed.

The same principle applies in professional settings. Whether it’s a work meeting, a client call, or a media interview, showing up prepared is the key to excelling. In the context of a work meeting, preparation might involve thoroughly researching every attendee on LinkedIn, understanding their roles, interests, and potential contributions to the discussion. For a client call, knowing every relevant statistic about their account can transform the conversation, allowing you to address concerns with precision and authority.

In today’s fast-paced world, where information is more accessible than ever, there is no excuse for winging it. Yet, many people skip these critical preparatory steps, choosing instead to rely on improvisation. This approach not only increases anxiety but also diminishes the quality of the outcomes. On the other hand, those who invest time in thorough preparation—researching, practicing, and anticipating potential challenges—consistently find that their anxiety dissipates, replaced by a sense of calm and control.

Scientific research supports this notion. Studies have shown that preparation reduces anxiety by increasing one’s sense of control over a situation (Wiggins, 2019). When you are prepared, you can anticipate questions, understand the nuances of the discussion, and confidently guide the conversation toward your desired outcomes. This is not just about doing well—it’s about excelling.

Be professionally prepared every time, consider the following strategies:

1. Research Thoroughly: Before any meeting or event, dive deep into the background of the people involved, the topics to be discussed, and the potential outcomes. This preparation not only informs your approach but also builds your confidence.

   
   

2. Practice Deliberately: Rehearse your key points, anticipate counterarguments, and refine your delivery. Deliberate practice is the hallmark of high performers (Ericsson et al., 2018).

   
   

3. Stay Informed: Continuously update your knowledge base. For example, before a media interview, gather recent statistics and news relevant to the topic. Being up-to-date ensures you can provide accurate, timely information that adds value to the discussion.

   
   

Preparation is not merely a step in the process of success—it is the foundation upon which success is built. By committing to doing more prep than you think necessary, you eliminate anxiety, enhance your performance, and set yourself apart as a true professional. Remember, showing up prepared is the most reliable way to ensure you show up as your best self.

Thank you Jodi for your thought-provoking insight!

Reference

Ericsson, K. A., Krampe, R. T., & Tesch-Römer, C. (2018). The role of deliberate practice in the acquisition of expert performance. Psychological Review, 100(3), 363–406. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.100.3.363

Wiggins, G. (2019). Reducing anxiety through preparation: A psychological perspective. Journal of Applied Psychology, 104(6), 944-952. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0000390