I’ve noticed this principle so many times in my own leadership and in working with other leaders. The more prepared I am to face a situation, the less stress I have in the situation.
Take a Sunday sermon, for example. On the weeks I’m able to spend my whole Wednesday and Thursday preparing, I’m far less stressed when I enter my weekend about the message I’ll be delivering. And, because of that, I discipline myself as much as possible to set these days aside for study.
Of course, that’s not possible every week. There are natural interruptions in life that I can’t and shouldn’t avoid. It’s understanding the principle that is important. Because when I realize the principle I am more likely to work toward seeing it become a reality.
I schedule most of my meetings on Monday and Tuesday. I delegate as much as I can on Wednesday and Thursday. And, perhaps most important, I place on my calendar when I will be studying.
And, this is just one example. It’s also why I use checklists to plan my week and my days. It’s why I am not afraid to say ‘no’ or ‘wait’ to non-emergency situations. It’s why I teach the Jethro and Acts 6 principles of leadership to our church. (Look them up for reference if you need a refresher.)
I’m intentional with my schedule and my life mostly because I’ve learned—the hard way—about this important principle.
Preparation decreases stress.
And, makes me a better leader.
Where do you need to increase your preparation so you can decrease your stress?
This article originally appeared here.
