Throughout my life, I have always tried to set myself up for success.  I don’t always achieve success, but I do the necessary preparation so that I have a chance.

1.   School

When my girls were in elementary school, we always took 10 minutes before bedtime to make sure that homework and books were in the backpack and placed by the door.  Shoes and coats were out by the backpacks.  Clothes were picked out and placed by the bed.  That 10 minutes of preparation before bed made it easier for us in the morning. 

Before school there were no major decisions to be made, it was easy.  My routine was to wake them and let them have some time in bed before they had to get up.  I would give them the first call 30 minutes before the bus arrived.  The second call was 5 minutes later and the last call was 20 minutes before they needed to catch the bus. 

It was amazing to me how good they were each morning.  I think it was because they knew the routine and there were no decisions to be made.  Of course, we had our moments, but for the most part at night we set ourselves up for success, and in the morning we carried out the routine. 

As the girls moved into intermediate and middle school I could see that the routine was working without me saying much of anything.  As a reminder, about an hour before bedtime, I ask if their school and sports bags are ready and if they have all their assignments completed and in their backpack.  Sometimes I rattle off a few subjects to force them to think about their homework. 

After elementary school, my kids had total responsibility for their homework.  I would attempt to help them if they asked me, but it was up to them to get their homework completed before bedtime.  If I knew about a big assignment I would encourage them to start early, break it down with them by the number of days, and help facilitate blocks of time for them to work. 

Teaching college helped me realize the importance of being responsible and being able to manage your time as a student.  I would rather my kids make mistakes managing their assignments early on! 

2.  Work

My father taught my brothers and me to be prepared for work before your start time.  My brothers and I would joke that my father could get a flat tire on the way to work and still arrive on time.  Even though we teased him about it, it was true.  He always allowed for unexpected surprises.  Therefore, he set himself up to succeed. 

At the end of my work day, I always set myself up for success for the next work day.  I have my list of priorities to accomplish and I have my most important and urgent items at the top of that list.  When I arrive the next work day, I don’t waste time deciding where to start, my plan is in front of me.

3.  Home

The same is true at home as it is at work.  I set up my plan for success in the evening and know exactly what I need to do the following day. 

When I prepare dinner for a group of people I set myself up for success before the event.  I take 10 minutes and make both a list and a plan.  I make a list of all the food items, ingredients, and miscellaneous items that I will need.  I also make a plan.  I start with the time the food needs to be complete and I work backward.  Once I have a plan written down, all I need to do is work the plan to succeed.  The written plan allows me to clear my mind and enjoy the event. 

Setting yourself up for success takes thought and preparation.   I pray each day for clarity and guidance.  My way may not make sense for you or your family, but my hope is that it will encourage you to look for ways that you can set yourself up for a great day! 

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