Stay Ready: Check Your Bags Twice

prepmanagementinc • January 4, 2022

Life has a funny way of humbling us when we least expect it.

I have a bad habit of leaving home without the most important thing(s). From my wallet to my phone, somehow I find ways to forget those things at home. It’s gotten to the point where I keep a checklist for going out (that o my out may not curb depending on the day).

In my most recent episode. I was in TSA, getting my bags checked at JFK for a trip to Atlanta. While getting my bags ready for security check, I opened my camera bag on the belt to pull out my laptop. As I pulled out my laptop, I noticed something even more important was missing: my CAMERA (the very reason I was being flown to Atlanta).

I looked on in horror as the flood of negative thoughts came to my head. I had been packing from 5AM and already knew where I left it -- right on the table where it was charging the night before. I had even grabbed the charger, however I simply blanked on grabbing the most important possession.

Then I thought to myself “Why am I always getting caught in situations like this?”. And after a few hours I believe the answer is this: even in the most meticulously planned situations, something unexpected can (and more than likely will) happen.

In all honesty: I visualize myself as reliable & prepared -- well at least I’m always FOCUSED on preparation. I’ve always hated being caught in situations that could easily be avoided by thinking ahead and mitigating roadblocks before they obstruct my path (wherever it may lead).

Simon Sinek broke down the Dwight Eisenhower quote "Planning is everything, the plan is nothing", during an interview with Capture Your Flag, saying that while plans break down the moment you try to implement them, planning prepares you for the unexpected.

That morning, when I got the call to bring my bags downstairs, I was still pulling all kinds of gadgets from charges. I knew what time I was supposed to be ready. And because I wasn't prepared when it came time, I payed the price at the airport that morning.

Thankful for the simple solution, I went back home, got my camera and boarded a later flight. Luckily I didn’t miss any major aspects of my trip. I was able to recover and still make it down for my engagement.

What if I’d have gotten on the flight I was supposed to be on without my camera? Only God knows the answer to that question, but I know for a fact that narrative wouldn’t have played out far better than the current one.

One of our divine abilities as humans is the ability to plan ahead in every facet of our lives. When we set plans, give ourselves the time to prepare and stick with them, life tends to be a lot more enjoyable, pleasant and placid. When we lack any three of those ingredients, it spells disaster most of the time.

Simply put: stay ready so you never have to get ready.

And check your bags twice before you pack ‘em.

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