Prepare Yourself
Dear Collective Community,
This week’s intention is a little different, but it’s something worth thinking about:
“Sometimes, be more prepared than you expected to be.”
What does that mean?
It means if you’re standing in line and you have a moment, think about the next thing you could do. If you have 30 seconds to spare, can you square up the next action? If it would only take one minute to write the email, pack the bag, or ask the question… maybe you should just do it.
It’s not about being obsessive or over-planning every detail of your life. We’re not talking about spiraling into anxiety or worry. If anything, this is about creating a bit of ease — having the future version of you feel just a little more supported by the actions you take today.
Here’s a story from the gym to illustrate what I mean:
The other day, I showed up to coach a class that I thought would have the usual crew. But three new people walked in. Different fitness levels, different needs. I didn’t panic. I had the playlist prepped, the warm-up could be adjusted, and the scaling options were already in my back pocket. That extra few minutes I spent planning earlier in the week? It helped me pivot without stress. The session turned out great, and all three came back.
That’s the type of preparedness I’m talking about. Not perfect. Not rigid. Just ready enough to adapt and serve.
But let me be honest — I’ve been on the other side too.
A few weeks ago, I had a mountain of tasks ahead of me: gym admin work, marketing updates, cleaning, cooking, even prepping for class. It felt overwhelming. And instead of tackling one small thing, I froze. I sat on the couch and did nothing. Because I wasn’t ready. I didn’t break it down. I didn’t give myself one small win to start the momentum.
And that’s the real issue: sometimes we confuse being overwhelmed with being busy. But often, we just aren’t prepared. We didn’t take the 30 seconds yesterday to jot down the list, pack the shoes, charge the headphones, or send the quick message. The little things compound, and we’re left stuck.
So, what can we do with this week’s intention?
3 Ways to Practice Being More Prepared
Look Ahead 5 Minutes
You don’t need a 12-week planner. Just ask: what’s one thing I can prep for right now?
Lay out your workout clothes. Grab the water bottle. Text the friend you were thinking of. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just forward.
Think About “Future You”
If it takes 60 seconds and it makes tomorrow easier… do it.
A packed gym bag = one less excuse.
A prepped breakfast = a better morning.
These tiny habits don’t just save time—they save you from the stress of deciding later.
Let Go of What You Can’t Control
This is key. Preparation is helpful. But obsession is harmful.
If you find yourself spiraling over every detail, remind yourself: not everything is yours to control.
Control what you can. Show up prepared. And let the rest go.
Let’s also be clear: some people will read this and hear “Be perfect.” That’s not the goal. This is about doing just enough to make your life easier, smoother, and more intentional. If perfectionism is your default mode, maybe the real prep you need is learning to let things be unfinished sometimes.
And if you’re the type to wing it every day, maybe this week you challenge yourself to take 5 minutes to get ahead of something.
The magic happens in the middle.
So here are some final questions to guide you this week:
What’s one thing I can do today that makes tomorrow easier?
Am I overwhelmed or just unprepared?
What’s a small action that will help me feel grounded instead of scattered?
Where can I be a little more ready — and a little more relaxed?
Give those some thought. This intention isn’t here to pressure you. It’s here to help you move through life with a little more power, a little more peace, and a lot more purpose.
With Strength & Readiness,
Charlie
We, The Collective Fitness