Prepare for the Unexpected

Prepared for the Unexpected

Life rarely unfolds exactly as we plan it. We can set goals, draw up schedules, and dream about the perfect outcomes, but obstacles often arise. The difference between thriving and stumbling in those moments isn’t just luck—it’s preparation.

Preparation comes in many forms. It’s taking care of your body, sharpening your mind, nurturing your community, and building a foundation that holds firm when adversity shows up. When the storms of life hit, we’re stronger when we’ve trained ourselves to expect the unexpected and handle hardship with resilience.

I’ve learned this lesson through experience, both in life and in my baseball career. As a starting pitcher, every game was an exercise in preparation and reflection. When you face a lineup for the first time, you’re learning as you go. By the second time through, you’re adjusting from what you saw earlier. By the third, you’ve got a full report of how to pitch more effectively. And if you’ve really done your homework, the preparation began long before the first pitch—through scouting reports, film study, and reflecting on past matchups.

The truth is, reflection is a form of preparation. Looking back at mistakes or setbacks isn’t about dwelling on failure—it’s about learning so you can do better next time. It’s about picking up the broken pieces, patching what needs to be patched, and moving forward with greater clarity. Each challenge, each obstacle, and each “at-bat” in life can become a chance to refine our approach.

When we prepare, we’re not just ready for what might go wrong—we’re also setting the stage for joy. Because once the groundwork is laid, once the preparation has been done, we can step into challenges with confidence. That’s when the fun comes back. That’s when we experience the childlike enjoyment of the game, knowing that we’re not scrambling, but instead showing up ready to face whatever comes.

Preparation doesn’t remove adversity—it transforms it into opportunity. And in that transformation, life becomes not just manageable, but meaningful.