The Power of Preparation: Lessons from John McPhee
I recently sat down with my friend John McPhee, a former Delta operator and relentless trainer, for an engaging chat on the Power Athlete Radio podcast. In just a few moments, John dropped some profound truths that resonate deeply with anyone looking to excel, both on the range and in life: the crucial difference between being average and being exceptional boils down to your preparation.
Equal on the Range, Unequal in Skill
John started by painting a familiar picture. Imagine someone stepping onto the range, picking up a weapon, and, for a brief moment, everyone seems equal. “Sam Colt says we’re all equal,” he remarked. On the surface, that’s true. A firearm is indeed a great equalizer. However, that notion fades when we consider skill and readiness.
As John pointed out: “All men are created equal until a guy learns how to train a little bit. Then we’re not equal anymore.” The moment someone invests time and effort into building their skills, they elevate themselves from the pack. They become someone who has committed to readiness as a way of life. John boldly states, “I am superior because I was ready for this moment.” It might sound harsh, but it’s a hard-earned truth backed by experience.
Readiness Beyond Firearms
This concept goes far beyond firearms and elite military operators. It touches on the daily lives of average individuals, such as athletes and those striving to be better in their personal and professional lives. Consider the father who rises early to train before work, the short-order cook who hits the gym after a demanding shift, or the coach who endures grueling off-season workouts. Readiness is essential in all aspects of life.
Being prepared is not merely about physical prowess; it’s a state of mind. It’s an ongoing commitment to being ready for whatever challenges may come your way.
Training Together: The Reality of Unpreparedness
Having trained alongside John in the gym and on the mats, I can attest to his skill and discipline. He’s a seasoned purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and whether faced with a physical altercation or a street encounter, the implications of being unprepared can be serious. Even outside high-stakes environments, the overarching principle remains: physical readiness is a personal responsibility. It’s about honoring your own capabilities and recognizing your potential.
As we’ve repeated time and again, “You don’t rise to the occasion; you fall to your level of training.” If your training is subpar, you’re not just risking your performance. You jeopardize your safety, your survival, and even your credibility.
Training as Foundation, Not an Option
In my world, training is not seen as optional. It’s foundational. It’s what makes you resilient in an unpredictable world—what you need to thrive amidst uncertainty. The reality is that life often doesn’t give you a warm-up; it throws challenges at you when you least expect it.
When John affirms that “we’re not equal anymore,” he’s issuing a challenge. It’s a wake-up call. If your aim is to be more than just average—to be prepared when it truly counts—you must earn that edge every single day.
Stay Ready, Stay Lethal
Ultimately, this journey revolves around what you choose to focus on. Those willing to put in the effort and dedication to be prepared will inherently set themselves apart. Staying ready means not just being capable, but being aware and continuously honing your skills. This dedication transforms not only your performance but your entire outlook on life.
Life is unpredictable, and it can change in an instant. This is why being prepared—physically, mentally, and emotionally—will always hold paramount importance. Embrace the journey. Stay ready. Stay lethal.