Preparing for the Rains: A Leadership Perspective on Readiness

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Not just about plans—a question of foresight and resilience.

“Who would have thought we’d go months without seeing each other?” That was me to a friend recently. Years ago, a global health crisis changed the way we live and work almost overnight. What started as a local outbreak became a worldwide disruption—shifting how we communicate, collaborate, and lead.

No one saw it coming. And that’s the point: the most significant shifts often arrive unannounced. They expose how ready—or unready—we are for change.

One of my favourite movies, Facing the Giants, has a scene where Coach Taylor makes a decision that puzzles his assistant. His response: “I am preparing for the rains.” When the rains came, his field was ready.

Sometimes, I imagine Noah giving the same answer when asked why he was building an ark: “I am preparing for the rains.” And when the rains came, he and those who trusted the process were safe. (Ref: Genesis 6:14–22)

We set targets, build strategies, and design plans—but when disruption hits, those who thrive are those who prepared for more than the expected. Readiness isn’t about predicting every storm; it’s about building systems, teams, and mindsets that can adapt when the rains come.

Here’s the real question:

Are we leading with foresight—or reacting when the storm hits? Are we modelling resilience when plans shift—or signalling panic to our teams? And as leaders, are we creating cultures that prepare for the rains—or hoping the weather stays fair?

Call to Action:

Take a moment this week to review your plans. Where can you build flexibility? Where can you strengthen systems for uncertainty? Because leadership isn’t just about setting goals—it’s about preparing the ground so when the rains come, your field is ready.