A Toast…To Preparedness

In my last post I wrote about how there is no better way to start your day than by being prepared. A common misconception about processes and planning is that it takes the spontaneity and creativity out of your work. Adam Carroll of Four Legacies Mortgage taught me otherwise. Creating processes and planning ahead actually allow for greater creativity.

Whether you’re throwing a birthday party for your two-year-old (which I did this past weekend), or you’re Sweet Lou Piniella preparing the Cubs for the playoffs, or you’re giving the toast at your best friends wedding…trust me…it’s always better to not wait until the last minute.

Here’s one of the greatest examples I’ve seen in years on planning ahead. This is especially timely for my "younger" professional friends (like Adam Steen, Andy Drish, or Tyler Osby) here in Des Moines who are about to embark on what will surely seem like a marathon of weddings over the next few years. If you are asked to be the best man in one of those weddings, one of the most important responsibilities you will have (other than getting the groom to the wedding) is toasting the bride and groom. Likely people will talk about that moment for hours, days, and perhaps even years after the wedding. It’s up to you whether those discussions are positive or negative.

For an example of what not to do, watch the wedding toast scene in the movie Wedding Crashers. But for an example of someone that planned ahead, check this out! WOW!

Next time you’re giving a toast, presenting an idea to your boss, or planning a cupcake themed birthday party for your two-year-old daughter, think about this guy’s toast. Just keep it in context, presenting an idea to your boss by parodying a Broadway musical could be a little over the top!

Can you think of a time when process or preperation has left the crowd wanting more? I know Drew McLellan and Mike Wagner have. How about you?

Comments

[Mike Wagner]

What happens before the game, before the curtain goes up, before the big meeting...what happens when no one is looking while you prepare with creative discipline IS where the magic is born.

Others envy the performer of the performance and wish they could do "that".

And they could. If they were willing to prepare.

Keep creating...Mike

[Cory Garrison]

If anyone would know you would, Mike!

And I think most would agree it is easier said than done. That's why people say things like, "he made it look so easy". Little did they know. Even in improvisation, as we've discussed. So much practice and preparation is what makes it look rehearsed.

Thanks for the conversation!

-Cory

[Andy Drish]

Wow - that's quite a toast. I'll keep that in mind for next year's wedding season. :)

Thanks Cory!

[Cory Garrison]

Andy,

Those are big shoes to fill...but you could certainly deliver! Keep on doing what you do!

-Cory

[Mark True]

Andy:

I don't know if you can carry a tune or not, but I have no doubt that you could pull off the organization and the energy displayed here!

-Mark