Let's be honest about our priorities. We all say certain things matter to us, like family, health, work, personal growth, but our actions tell the real story. Are we actually willing to put in the preparation time for the things we claim are important? Sometimes I catch myself saying something matters, then realizing I haven't made any real effort toward it yet. That gap between what we say and what we do requires some hard reflection. I don't want to be a person who says things that don't matter. And yes, our priorities shift as life changes. That's normal. “Am I willing to prepare for success in what truly matters… and do I take the time to reflect on what those priorities are?
Years ago my daughter was talking about how cool it would be to take a trip overseas as soon as she graduated from high school. I looked at her and said that it was easy to say that and “wish it”, but anybody can do that. Was she willing to prepare to make that trip happen? Well, she did and she had an amazing time in Norway – an unforgettable trip for many reasons.
Willingness completely changes how we show up. There's a world of difference between doing something because you “have to” versus because you “get to.” I've noticed this in my own life, when I shift my thinking from obligation to opportunity, everything transforms. Dreaded tasks become meaningful contributions. When I approach something willingly, I bring my whole self to it. My energy is different. My attitude is different. And not surprisingly, the results are usually much better too. People notice too.
Preparation is what bridges the gap between our stated values and our lived reality. In any area that truly matters, preparation isn't optional. It's essential. It's easy to overlook this when we're caught up in the daily rush. Business doesn't equal priorities. We might say health is a priority but consistently fail to prepare nutritious meals or make time for exercise. We might value creativity but never set aside time to explore some of our interests. The willingness to prepare, to carve out time and attention for what matters is what separates empty words from genuine priorities.
My willingness to prepare each morning comes from connecting to what feels authentic to me. On days when I feel resistance, I remind myself of the unique perspective I bring to Impartial and why I'm doing this work in the first place. My vision for what's possible pulls me forward. I've found that when I ground my preparation in purpose, I can sustain it through challenges and setbacks. This isn't about perfect preparation. It's just about consistently showing up ready to give my best just for that day.
