PREPARATION

In 1946, entertainer Ray Charles heard that Lucky Millinder’s band was coming to town. Charles managed to arrange an audition, and that excited him. If he could get on with Millinder, he would be in the big time.

When his opportunity came, the young musician played the piano and sang his heart out. Being blind, Charles couldn’t see Millinder’s reaction to his performance, so when he was finished, Charles waited patiently for his response. Finally he heard the band leader say, “Ain’t good enough, kid.” Charles went back to his room and cried.

“That was the best thing that ever happened to me,” Charles later recalled. “After I got over feeling sorry for myself, I went back and started practicing so nobody would ever say that to me again.” No one has. As the saying goes, “You can claim to be surprised once; after that, you’re unprepared.” Charles’ preparation has paid him dividends for more than half a century, and he has played with some of the most talented musicians in the world. Preparation may not guarantee a win, but it sure puts you in position for one.

To your talent, add preparation.

Reference:

Maxwell, J. C. (2007). Maximize your day: 365 days of insights to develop the leader within you and influence those around you. Manila, Philippines: OMF Literature Inc.