Why Preparation is Key

This is a profession of service and you want to be prepared for every question, concern, or uncertainty. YOU are the expert, and your clients are putting their full trust in what you know. Go to all the training, webinars, and meetings available to you when possible. Especially if these are offered by your company. This gives you an opportunity to brainstorm and discuss solutions to common problems you are experiencing in your area.

Ask yourself what makes you the most uncomfortable and then tackle it. The reason you are uncomfortable is because you either lack knowledge or experience in that area. What you fear the most is exactly what you need to hone in on and master. If that’s negotiating, then role-play with someone who is excellent at negotiating. They will be able to tell you exactly what you’re doing wrong and then tell you what to say so you will be confident when that time comes.

Being coachable is vital for growth. Being coachable means we allow someone to see our shortcomings and give us the tools we need to succeed. It’s an incredibly hard thing to do, but it’s also necessary if we want to break through that barrier of fear. You will never gain confidence in those areas unless you face your fears and open yourself up to constructive criticism. Constructive criticism is not meant to tear you down, it is a type of feedback that explains ways that you can improve and offers direction.

Having potential is not enough. You will have mentors, coaches, and cheerleaders in your corner, but you are the one who has to show up to practice. There’s a famous quote by Bear Bryant that sums it up perfectly - “It’s not the will to win, but the will to prepare to win that makes the difference.” So I ask you, what will you do today to prepare yourself for the future?