I’ve been working out lately. 

Although I could stand to lose a few pounds that is not my goal; I’m just trying NOT to die!

We often focus on the wrong things; most people focus on their weight when the real issue is their Cholesterol.  It’s not what you see on the surface that matters; it’s what’s underneath.

In a meeting people see how you appear, what you present.  They don’t see what’s underneath and behind the presentation.  They don’t see the planning and preparation.

We can all agree that early preparation is important to flawless execution.

I was reminded of this lesson this week at the gym; TWICE!

On Monday, I went to the gym during a late lunch hour when few people are there.  I got in a good and sweaty workout. After my shower I began to dress and realized I had packed my gym bag hastily that morning (rather than the night before) and had forgotten to pack a clean pair of underwear. 

I was due to present to a Conference Steering Committee for a potential speaking gig in thirty minutes!

My choice; wear the sweaty underwear or go Commando (I first learned this term, like many of you, from Joey on “Friends” episode).  Talk about an indecent proposal!

 I took a deep breath and tried to calm myself down.  A soothing and appropriate thought came to mind; “don’t sweat the small stuff” to which I subconsciously responded, “THIS is not small stuff!”

That night I packed my gym bag for the next day.  I was ever vigilant regarding underwear.  In fact, I put in an extra pair and even took the time to color coordinate my outfit (something I rarely worry about). I decided to wear all Maryland Basketball clothing.  The kids and I are great fans and over the years we have accumulated quite an arsenal of matching clothing in XL (for me), L (for my son Stephen) and M (for my daughter Taylor).

Tuesday I went to the gym after work when it is at its busiest. 

This time the problem surfaced early when I went to put on the grey Maryland T-Shirt.  I had grabbed Taylor’s Medium instead of my XL!  I got it on, but it did not look (or feel) good!

So with the gym at its busiest I walked out to buy a T-Shirt and exposed my form fitting, even form changing, attire!   Several people noticed.  I was exposed!

Both scenarios cost me something; one money, one confidence. 

The day before no one noticed because the problem was beneath the surface.  But I noticed!  And I doubted I would get the speaking gig.

Like a good friend who had survived a family health scare once told me; “if money can solve your problems; you got no problems.”

Oh, I almost forgot… while under-dressed and over-exposed in the gym I ran into one of the steering committee members from the day before.  I explained away my appearance trying to display a “can-do happy-go-lucky” attitude.

 She laughed and said, “Lon, that’s why we want you to speak for us.  You are a genuine personality!”

She was obviously a Maryland fan!

I wonder if she watches Friends?

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Lon Kieffer, author of “Get Out of Bed and Go to Work!”, Speaker, Consultant, Executive Recruiter and Expert on Workplace Culture Change and Generational Conflicts, gives seminars, keynote and plenary addresses, runs annual sales meetings, and provides Common Sense Consulting at:  www.LonKieffer.com. He can be reached at:  (302) 462-6748 or via email at:  Lon@LonKieffer.com