We always begin at the beginning. We start where we start.

But what if we looked at our preparation as the start?

John Wooden said, “the day of opportunity is too late to begin preparing.”

John Maxwell goes further, “If you start learning about leadership now, not only will you increase your opportunities, but you’ll also make the most of them when they arrive.”

Make the most of your opportunities beforehand by preparing.

Preparation is the start.

If we viewed our preparation with the significance of truly starting something, how many otherwise mundane moments could we reframe as opportunities to propel us forward?

Getting up with your alarm to get that workout in.

Showering and attending your remote job wearing pants.

All great ways to prepare your mind and body with intention.

Our time of preparation can go from the day-to-day to bigger, broader steps, too. Like that time I picked up a leadership book from the library or sat down to fill out a college application to finish my degree. 

You can start something every day.

So, as you start or continue on your journey in leadership, know that the preparation you do today, is the beginning of an opportunity tomorrow, or even in your next Zoom call.

If you have an idea, a dream, a “start” that is on your mind—remember this: you’re starting now by preparing now.

So take the next step. And keep on keeping on.

“Leadership is developed daily, not in a day.” 

John Maxwell