By: Phil Pierre

There's a saying in sports that I remember using all the time, and that I hear professional athletes use regularly. That is, "Next man up!". This adage speaks to the idea that on a team there are going to be folks who play in games throughout the season and others who may not play regularly. No matter which side of this dynamic you fall in, the preparation isn't any different.

In my #career, I've found that the lessons I learned as an athlete somehow always find relevance in the work I do. Most recently, I was asked to present a proposal minutes before it was shown to the approval committee. This experience made me think about the preparation that's always needed in sports regardless if you think you'll play in the next game or not. This is the same level of preparation that's required in the workplace. It makes me think about the other side of "Next man up", which says, "Be ready so you don't have to get ready". In other words, know your work intimately, prepare to speak on it at a moments notice, and most importantly you should ensure that your work connects to your 'why?' and the company's 'why?'. I really love connecting people with opportunities, that's my 'why' and it fuels my motivation to keep preparing for #opportunity.

So my message to you all is be ready for anything. Keep sharpening your skills, keep striving for #greatness. "Get off the porch", do something different that pushes you outside your comfort zone (the porch) so that you're always ready to answer the call when your number gets called, or opportunity comes your way.

Be Ready,

Phil

PS: The proposal was approved 😃