I hear a lot of dreams and ideas from people, from wanting to start a business, family or new career to engaging in community service or launching a non-profit. I can quickly gauge how serious someone is by asking one simple question: “How much time and effort do you expend today preparing for the transition or impact you want to make tomorrow?”  The answer is usually uninspiring. The quantity and quality of your preparation today is a leading indicator of your success tomorrow. If you really want to start something new or make a transition in life, start preparing – now. Find mentors, read voraciously, etc. If you lack the motivation or discipline to prepare, you’re likely to lack the motivation or discipline to succeed in the new endeavor. At best, you’ll force other people you take along for the ride to suffer the consequences of your lack of preparation.…