A Proactive Approach to Preparedness

The Macleamy Curve

 

Front-Load

verb

gerund or present participle: front-loading

distribute or allocate (costs, effort, etc.) unevenly, with the greater proportion at the beginning of the enterprise or process.

What is Front Loading

If you have never heard the term, no we are not talking about washing machines.  Front loading is an approach to completing nearly any goal.  In the realm of preparedness, adopting a proactive approach is paramount. Front loading, a strategy akin to concentrating efforts early for efficiency, emerges as a powerful method. I always explained it to my teams as, "I would rather work 15 hours on Monday so I can work 5 hours on Friday." The idea or concept is let's get everything we can get done ahead of time, so we can have more free time on the backside.

The Proactive Advantage

Front loading preparedness involves prioritizing early action to mitigate risks and enhance readiness. By dedicating substantial efforts upfront, individuals and organizations establish a solid foundation for handling emergencies. This proactive stance fosters a sense of control and preparedness, reducing the impact of unforeseen events.  More importantly this will reduce stress in an actual event.  It is just like studying for any test.  When you prepare and study, then take your test you have two feelings:  I aced it (because you studied well) or I bombed it (because you felt like you were reading a different language with each question).  Front loading offers another advantage in the aspect of troubleshooting.  If you have done the leg work and finished all the planning/tasks etc, when something goes wrong you have more time to correct or troubleshoot, making you plan, mitigation, solutions even better.  To give it an overall sum it is, doing more work on the front end, so when it is for real, you can manage easier.  I was once asked "how do you stay so calm" when things were falling apart at work.  My reply was "because this is easy."  Why was it easy, because we had already done the work.  

Incorporating Into Your Daily Life

Effective front loading goes beyond mere task completion; it entails integrating preparatory efforts seamlessly into daily routines. Front loading allows individuals to prioritize preparedness tasks early, freeing up time and mental space for other commitments. This balanced approach ensures that preparedness remains a priority without overshadowing other aspects of life.  Little things like checking on your vehicle, reviewing financial holdings, things that don't become a checklist but part of your routine.  At some point, they will become so automatic you don't even need to think about doing it, you just will.  This can be a pitfall for complacency, so you must mind that as well.  

Front loading offers a strategic approach to preparedness planning, emphasizing proactive measures and early action. By prioritizing preparedness tasks early on and balancing them with daily responsibilities, individuals and organizations can better navigate challenges and uncertainties. Embracing front loading as an approach to preparedness equips us with the readiness and resilience needed to face whatever may come our way.  Remember, this is more of a mindset than an actual process.