Prepared

Most of us are familiar with the Boy Scout motto, Be Prepared. Boy Scout founder Robert Baden-Powell defined it this way: “A Scout is never taken by surprise; he knows exactly what to do when anything unexpected happens.” Do you know what to do when the unexpected happened? Know this: the unexpected always happens.

Scouts and Scouters do not stumble on success; they prepare for it. They do not bump into opportunities to serve others; they are ready at all times to step in. Few people know more about preparing for the unexpected that former New York Mayor, Rudy Giuliani. As the city’s mayor during the attack on the World Trade Center Towers on September 11, 2001, he had to use all the knowledge he had in a moment. No one had ever seen a disaster like this nor did we ever expect it, but Mayor Giuliani and his team wasted no time getting into action.

“You can claim to be surprised once; after that, you’re unprepared.”

Old Saying

In his book Leadership, Mayor Giuliani said, “Your success will be determined by your ability to prepare.” You cannot get lost in the thinking that says, “Prepared for what?  What do I prepare for?” Being prepared is not a step by step by step list of what to do in a situation; it is a state of mind. Being ready means you can think fast, make decisions and do what you need to do without hesitation.

Scouts are always learning and reaching out to new areas so they can be ready. To be mentally prepared tomorrow will be too late. John Maxwell said, “The only adequate preparation for tomorrow is the right use of today.” It is what you are ready for today that matters most. Putting things off is never a good idea. You do not know what will happen tomorrow, what opportunities will come up.  You would hate to miss something great because you are doing things that could have – should have – been done yesterday.

Be ready for the unexpected. As I said, the unexpected will happen. It will all depend on whether you were prepared or not. It could be a great opportunity that will pass your way only once, could be a monumental disaster like 9/11. Whatever the case, be ready and you will enjoy the success that only the prepared know. As Louis Pasteur said, “Fortune favors the prepared mind.”

“Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor,

sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.”

2 Timothy 2:21

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey