Create a plan when the wind is a breeze

September 8, 4:32 PMWorkplace Wellness ExaminerDr. Gaby Cora

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Most people ask me about the best contingency plan. They become surprised when I say the best plan for an emergency is to be in great shape on a regular basis. When there is little preparation to be well, when the unexpected hits, there will be chaos, turmoil, and disorganization. Katrina is an unfortunate example.

On the other end, how do you prepare for a potential direct strike? Whether you are in South Florida preparing for a hurricane, or in California, ready for a potential earthquake, the bottom line is: be ready when things are calm. After the back-to-back hurricane experience in 2005, we have become better prepared, “just in case.” At the same time, many realize that we tend to become somewhat detached from the potential of yet another hurricane hit. Our denial processes may be helpful at times, but they will get us in trouble if we don’t check our preparation before emergency strikes. The latest preparation in New Orleans shows the difference as to lessons learned.

How to prepare in advance?

1. Have a plan: If you didn’t create a plan before, create a personal and a business plan to help you smoothly sail the rough waters and bounce back as soon as possible.
2. Communicate the plan: I’ve seen plans hidden in the first drawer too many times. It’s of essence to both have a plan in place and to communicate the plan to everyone including family members at home as well as employees at work.
3. Keep your daily schedule as much as possible: Many paralyze thinking about the potential future instead of keeping a plan in place and continuing business as usual. This will keep you focused on bringing the business forward, distracted from having a negative outlook, and prepared, just in case.
4. Put your plan into action when emergency strikes: Look at what worked and take note of what didn’t work as well. Plans aren’t carved on stone but a template for improvement.
5. Bounce back as soon as possible: Resilience will be key in your short and long-term success.