Plan for the Worst

Hurricane Irene has come and gone. Over 20 people have died, millions are still waiting for power to be restored, and hundreds of roadways have been blocked or damaged. Without question, Hurricane Irene was felt throughout the East Coast, and will continue to be felt over the next few days.

Interestingly (though not surprisingly), there seems to be a fair amount of people this morning complaining about the predicted impact. Some are saying the hurricane was over-hyped, causing many businesses to unnecessarily close. Sadly, some in the media seem somewhat disappointed. I suppose reporting extremely bad news is more exciting than reporting regular bad news. Sad.

When Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana, officials were critcized for not being prepared for the catastrophe (and for not preparing the citizens). Now that Hurricane Irene has hit, officials are criticized for over-preparing. I tend to focus on the good in whatever is coming my way, and I anticipate things will be good. However, I’m a realist, so I prepare for everything to go bad. In essence, I expect the best and plan for the worst. As a leader in your personal and professional life, you should always do the same … expect the best, plan for the worst, and be terribly thankful when the worst doesn’t happen. Don’t ever fall for the criticism that you over-prepared.

I’m thankful the predictions were wrong. I’m happy for those who prepared for the worst and made it through unscathed. For those whose lives have been impacted forever because of the death of a loved one as a result of Hurricane Irene, I pray for peace in your lives.

Clint Swindall