Before we go out — to an event, for instance — we spend time getting ready. Showering. Dressing. Grooming. We check the mirror. Maybe even ask someone, “How do I look?”

But for all the time we take to prepare our physical appearance, how much attention do we give to what’s happening on the inside? Preparing our attitude? Preparing our intention?

We consider, “Here’s how I want to look.”

Do we also consider, “Here’s how I want to engage,” or “Here’s how I want to be kind,” or “Here’s how I want to be fully present.”?

Getting ready isn’t just about how we plan to look. It’s also about how we plan to be.