Underprepared

Especially if you are usually prepared, measured, and meticulous.

There are many times during a physical practice where it is best to plan the workout: the rep schemes, progressions, and rest periods. In staying accountable to these, one is able to make sustained and consistent progress, mostly.

But under-preparing has utility too…

When a plan is decided on prior to a workout, an expectation is created. It dictates how said workout will pan out. But if there is no plan, there are usually few expectations. And if there are no expectations, the mind is opened to new experiences.

Without expectation, we may surprise ourselves; perform more work than we previously believed capable; execute an unsuspecting PR; or dig a hole so deep we uncover a new layer of self.

We would not have explored this path previously – the plan may have prohibited it and perhaps this keeps us from ever venturing out and truly testing capacity. But any great journey begins with this crossing into the unknown. It is where we are transformed.

There is a caveat however: to those who embody the “full send” mentality and reckless sentiment. Beware. You may find yourself in a hole that you are unable to dig yourself out of as a result of this chronic under-preparedness.

But if you are a calculated customer, err on the end of spontaneity once every so often. You may realise tremendous value in doing so.