66. Push Constant Preparation
The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital.
—Joe Paterno, Penn State football coach
People may fail in their efforts to lead. No one is immune to missteps or flubs. However, exceptional leaders know that there is no excuse for someone to underestimate the leadership challenge. There is no excuse not to prepare effectively. The best leaders develop others by focusing them on constant preparation.
Direct people to continually prepare by helping them develop their skills in mapping the territory and identifying the need to lead (see Chapter 6). Coach them on how to go into the GAP and "gain another perspective" (skill 36) so they can recognize leadership issues. Encourage them to work like Walton ...
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