No one likes to think about a crisis. But whether you’re leading a business, a nonprofit, or a community organization, the reality is that at some point you’ll face one. The question isn’t if—it’s when. And when it comes, will you be ready?

The truth is, most crises don’t announce themselves. They show up quickly and often at the worst possible moment. That’s why one of the smartest ways to prepare is surprisingly simple: game out possible scenarios in advance.