Preparation and Grounding
As I gear up for the busy season in the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries I'm thinking a lot about the difference between being prepared and being grounded.
I used to have a severe case of imposter syndrome. One symptom for me is meticulous over-planning and preparation, leaving no contingency unaddressed. But, it's mentally exhausting to attempt 20/20 foresight. And anyway, it lacks luster when everything is "under control."
Don't get me wrong, a certain amount of preparation is vital! But, part of me living so diehard by the Boy Scout motto was that I didn't have faith in myself that I could meet whatever the moment called for with what I had inside me.
When I catch myself over-preparing I shifting my orientation towards being grounded rather than clinging to being prepared.
Before I go into a presentation, meeting, event, etc. I make sure I'm well fed, rested and loved to the best of my ability. I put that first, even if it means the handouts don't get printed. I put attention to my spiritual practices (meditation and yoga) which remind me I can be both steady and adaptive. I note to myself what is non-negotiable and stay flexible about the rest. I trust that there is something I cannot plan for, that only the
people gathered can co-create, if only I can leave space for that something.
When I do these things to stay grounded, I can pivot with some grace to meet the unexpected and settle into the moment knowing I have everything I need.
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