(ThyBlackMan.com) Did you know that this popular phrase is generally thought of as a British army adage? It was used to accentuate project planning or when training for life or death situations. Educators and trainers in contemporary military or civilian situations found it useful to first introduce the phrase as “the 7 Ps.” When it is discussed, the humor and awe concerning the subtle expletive gives it authority and relevance as an eye catching, powerful statement.
Further research by this writer has yielded a more up to date version of the phrase which is attributable to former Pittsburg Steelers free agent quarterback Charlie Batch, who has adopted as his life motto: “Proper preparation prevents poor performance.” When Charlie is not on the field he is heading up his not for profit organization, Best of the Batch Foundation. The foundation was inspired as a result of the murder of his beloved sister, Danyl Lynn Settles; just 17 at the time of her murder. 
The Best of the Batch Foundation, like many in the inner cities of most major American urban centers, has a mission to insure that disadvantaged youth and their families get a leg up on the problems that are rife within the communities they inhabit. Charlie’s motto would do well to be adopted by all school age children in the aforementioned cities.
The 7 P’s is not only just used for the military anymore. These seven principals have been adapted by many different people from various walks of life. People from business to mentoring/training programs use the 7 P’s principals. There are things in life that we would love to finish or start, goals that were set years ago but never taken action upon. So let’s breakdown each concept with a view to how one can get the best from each no matter what.
Proper Preparation: This is basically, an axiom that exhorts one to be prepared for opportunities that may come your way. Many times people find themselves wanting to achieve goals, yet, are not well suited to take appropriate action. Make a proper plan of action to achieve your goals. There are many ways of going about this from making a list of your goals, with a reasonable deadline. Taking time to really think about what you are trying to achieve. Remember, you must make sure to take notes and record your thoughts.
Planning: This places emphasis on utilizing as many outcomes at ones disposal. You always want to prepare for success and not failure. Preparing a plan does take a few things like time, knowledge, and attention. Always be prepared for Murphy’s Law. Which is anything that can happen (wrong) will happen.
Prevents: In everything one does an attempt should be made to stay a step or two ahead of any obstacles, which could come your way. Identify the things that may be foreseen and visualize things that are unseen. Making sure to take necessary steps to prevent a catastrophe. Remember the carpenter’s creed: “measure twice; cut once” this is critical if you want to get it right the first time in order to achieve and protect your goals and plans.
Piss: Basically, don’t be your worst nightmare. All of what can be done for your goals and yourself is up to you. So make sure not to trample over it. Don’t give up on yourself and make excuses. Value what you have and what you have discovered about yourself and your goals.
Poor: Make sure that you know your worth. Don’t ever sell yourself short. Give yourself and your goals the best of you at all times. Follow through with the goals and plans that you have set forth for yourself. When you find yourself doubting or feel like quitting, take time and go back; review your plans.
Performance: Don’t forget that as quickly as you reached your goals or plans that you can lose sight of them just as fast. Don’t take others for granted, remember: The people you meet on the way up the ladder of success will sometimes cross paths with you on the way down. Make sure that you are giving your all every step of the way. You should work smarter, not harder to achieve your intended goals.
Unfortunately, the reality is that not everyone will take the 7 P’s principal to heart and make it work for them as per the case with Charlie Batch. The 7 P’s can be applied to any aspect of life. It is all up to each individual to decide how the 7 P’s can help benefit them and improve their lives.
Staff Writer; Stanley G. Buford
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