The Power of Preparation: A Morning in Mansfield

On Thursday, I had the pleasure of delivering my Mental Resilience Masterclass to members of the Mansfield and Ashfield Business Network. This was one of their special “Wow” events, where expert speakers are invited to inspire and challenge the group.
 
Being chosen to speak was an honour, and it became a memorable experience.
 
This opportunity arose thanks to Paul Chadbourne, a board member with whom I have a long-standing relationship. We first crossed paths during my radio days, and he also heard me speak around a decade ago.
 
Paul believed I was the right fit for this event, and I’m grateful for his trust. Paul, if you’re reading this blog, thank you.
 
The Early Start
 
This event required me to be set up by 7:00 a.m. and ready to begin at 8:00 a.m. Working backwards, I knew I needed to be up at 4:15 am to allow time for my routines, travel, and preparation.
 
Why so early? Because I know how important it is to be mentally and physically ready. My mornings begin with quiet time, during which I review my Dream Board and repeat positive affirmations, visualising the event to come. These routines energise me and sharpen my focus before I face the day.
 
I arrived in Mansfield at 5:30 am and, after checking the location of the venue, I stopped at McDonald’s for a cup of tea. There, I took the time to go through my routines, wake up fully, and arrive at the venue calm and prepared.
 
By the time I reached Mansfield College, I was early, relaxed, and had time to check the sound, slides, and even enjoy another tea before stepping up to speak.
 
Why Preparation Matters
 
This is the approach I take for all my masterclasses, including Vistage sessions, where I usually stay overnight near the venue to avoid potential traffic delays. I typically rise at 5 am, ensuring I have ample time to prepare without feeling rushed.
 
I also go to bed at 9 pm the night before, so I get a full eight hours of sleep and arrive fully alert.
 
This is about more than logistics; it’s about professionalism and respect. Respect for the organisers who put their trust in me, respect for the audience who give up their time, and respect for myself so I can deliver with energy and clarity.
 
And it pays off. At Mansfield, I felt alive, focused, and ready. The feedback from the session was excellent, and several attendees asked me about potential follow-up work.
 
The day reminded me that when you prepare correctly, you give yourself the best chance to succeed and you create opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
 
 
3 Key Takeaways
 
1. Success starts the night before
Preparation isn’t just about the day itself. Going to bed at the right time and ensuring you’re rested is part of the process. The quality of tomorrow often depends on the decisions you make today.
 
2. Routines create results
Simple daily practices, such as using a Dream Board, affirmations, or engaging in quiet reflection, have a profoundly powerful effect. They ground you, energise you, and help you perform at your best. The routines don’t need to be complicated; they need to be consistent.
 
3. Professionalism builds trust
Arriving early, checking your equipment, and giving yourself time sends a clear signal: you care. This professionalism not only boosts your own confidence but also reassures the people who have invested in you.
 
 
The small things make all the difference.
 
Delivering my Mental Resilience Masterclass in Mansfield reminded me that small habits make a big difference. Getting enough sleep, allowing time for routines, and preparing properly meant I could deliver with energy and confidence.
 
In the end, it’s simple: when you prepare well, you perform well. And when you perform well, doors open. Or, as Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”
 
Success really does start the night before, routines really do create results, and professionalism really does build trust.
 
 
Thoughts for the week 

1. What could you do the night before an important day to set yourself up for success?
2. Do you have a routine that gets you into the right mindset? If not, what simple ritual could you create?
3. How might arriving early and fully prepared change the way others perceive you?
4. Where in your life could better preparation unlock more opportunities? 

 
Well, that’s it for this week. Have a wonderful weekend and keep believing.
 
Warm regards
 
John


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