"予測はできないが、準備はできる"

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. The essence of this quote is that while we can't foresee every moment in our future, we can equip ourselves with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to handle whatever comes our way. It's all about preparation over prediction.

Think about it—predicting the future with absolute accuracy is impossible. No one can tell you exactly what's going to happen tomorrow, next week, or next year. But, what you can do is prepare, so when the unexpected happens, you're ready to roll with the punches.

This idea became particularly relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nobody could have predicted the extent of the disruption it would cause. However, those who had diversified their skillsets, maintained a savings buffer, or had flexible work arrangements were better able to handle the upheaval. It wasn’t about knowing a pandemic was coming—it was about being prepared for major life disruptions in general.

Let’s dive into a real-life example. Think of emergency responders, like firefighters. They don’t know when the next fire will break out, but they train rigorously, keep their equipment in top condition, and maintain physical fitness. Their ability to handle a crisis isn’t about predicting when and where the next fire will be. It’s about being ready to act, no matter when or where it strikes.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by building a broad base of skills. Learn things that can be useful in various situations—critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are good places to start. Also, consider financial preparation. Having an emergency fund can be a lifesaver when the unexpected happens.

Now, let's imagine a scenario to make this concept hit home. Picture Sara, a small business owner. She can't predict the market fluctuations or economic downturns. What she can do is prepare her business by diversifying her product lines, building a loyal customer base, and keeping an eye on her cash flow. When a sudden economic crisis hits, Sara isn't left scrambling. She has a plan in place and can pivot her business to navigate through the tough times.

We all know it’s easy to get caught up in trying to predict every little thing. But shifting your focus to preparation can relieve some of that anxiety. It’s like going on a hike. You can’t predict the weather with 100% certainty, but you can bring rain gear, wear sturdy boots, and pack enough water. That way, you’re ready whether the sun shines or it pours.

In the end, it’s all about mindset. Embrace uncertainty with the confidence that you can handle whatever comes your way, thanks to your preparation. Don’t waste energy trying to predict every possible outcome. Instead, invest that energy into making sure you’re ready for anything. You’ll find that when you’re well-prepared, you’re not just surviving the unexpected—you’re thriving.