Plan, Prepare and Perform

Finally, you have decided to go on a solo trip to Thailand! Or start the YouTube channel you have always wanted! Good for you for committing to this idea. Once you have an idea, goal or activity that you want to execute, what are the next key steps to ensure that it will be achieved? One of the most popular and simple strategies is to plan, prepare and perform. 

The planning phase is the most powerful step in the process. Planning is similar to having a roadmap that helps you reach your desired destination in the most efficient and prioritized manner. As you initiate it, you will realize what needs to be accomplished. Therefore, by writing them down, it will help you to organize all the tasks and estimate their amount of effort required. You can set success criteria that you can measure your performance upon delivery. You will also determine the benefits and potential risks that you may encounter with this activity. For example, for a business presentation, you may need to be aware that the projector in the client’s office may not work or be compatible with your laptop - therefore you should have your slide deck printed as a backup. 

The following step involves preparation. Now that you have planned what needs to be done, you can gather the resources. This can involve tasks such as writing the content you want to say in your best friend’s wedding or buying the ingredients you need for the potluck party. For certain activities, preparation involves practicing. You may practice your violin for the upcoming recital or your backhand for the tennis tournament. Whatever the preparation is, the further advance you do it, the better prepared you will be. 

The last step is your performance of the activity, also known as the execution. You will be able to perform your best in the dance routine or in the hike to Mount Everest because you have planned and practiced well. Remember that you will deliver your optimal performance if you have a growth mindset and balanced lifestyle.

As for the benefits of this 3-part strategy, first, you feel productive because a plan has been established. Second, it gives you the confidence you need to execute the activity and face any potential unknowns because you are better prepared. Third, you will have stronger ownership and control of the activity, and thus want to perform better by delivering your best. You will have far greater success in anything that you pursue if you adopt this strategy as part of your lifestyle.

REFLECTION

• Out of these 3 steps, which one do you spend the most time?
• Do you have other steps that you think should be added?
• What is the next idea or activity that you want to plan, prepare and perform for?

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We have a PDF version of the blog that summarizes its key points for you to review. You can download the PDF from the link below.