Running On Empty

The west coast of the U.S. is facing huge shortages of electricity.  Not having enough water equals not having enough power. Some electricity bills have tripled and threaten to quadruple, causing power dependent manufacturing plants to look at re-locating to more affordable places to do business.  And of course, economic ramifications will surely follow. Others complain loudly, but their voices are unheard. It's too late. We are running on empty.

But this is not about politics, or price caps or finger pointing. Shortages cause us to ask questions and while this particular crisis does not affect everyone, there are questions we ask that may well apply to our own lives and organizations. Do we do the very same thing? We need to ask the same questions. 

Didn't anybody see this coming?

It's the 'who's in charge here' question that haunts each of us who has failed to plan for unexpected emergencies. It's like going into retirement without having any funds put
aside or driving your car without carrying a spare tire. Or not having a back up babysitter for the night of an important event. "Being prepared" in every part of our lives is wisdom to ponder. 


Why do we wait so long to look at alternative resources?

"Necessity is the mother of invention". "When the going gets tough, the tough get going." Looking ahead NOW, rather than later, can not only save you a lot of stress and discomfort, but perhaps lead you to a better, more creative way of being at work as well as at home.

Why do we think things would stay the same?

It's easy to be complacent when certain things are in place for a long period of time.  We tend not to conserve on resources until there is a problem. Most people in 
our society not only spend more than they earn but also make assumptions about good health, people staying in the same job, and organizational structure.  Because adjusting to change requires effort, there is a tendency to resist it.
Having a "plan B" in place is a great way to create safety as well as peace of mind.
JS


KEY QUESTIONS:

- Who is responsible for your life, your family and your organization? 
Are you prepared to own that part that pertains to you and be responsible for you're your part in it.

- Are you prepared for the unexpected? What can you do to get ready?  When will you be ready?

- What will it take to get your reserve tank full - physically, emotionally, spiritually, financially and mentally?