Preparation
The main purpose of a Preparation phase is to allow time for mental preparation, to narrow our focus and build clarity of what ‘good’ looks like.
This enables far greater intentionality and impact during the Focus phase that follows.
Without a Preparation phase, it is easy to feel reactive – pushed onto the back foot from the first moment of the day. Because this makes us feel less in control of our day, this also leads to much higher levels of stress.
The benefits of a Preparation phase are therefore about a greater sense of control and purpose, which assists feelings of calm and clarity.
Further benefits include improved focus and less distractibility, which in turn lead to greater feelings of impact.
Even 5 minutes per day of extra Preparation time could reduce feelings of stress and enhance your sense of control.