I learned something new about myself recently. I know I can be stubborn and I know I can be controlling, but, what if, I could be open to the possibly of coaching –truly vulnerable and open to the gift of honest feedback? Would I not have anything to lose, but only grow from the experience? I have a very strong work ethic. This comes from an upbringing of always having to be productive with my time, whether it was exercising, studying, practicing the piano or working. To this day, I have difficulty with leisure activities – almost feeling guilty as if I am wasting time. I tend to take on projects without asking for help because I want it done my way and on my timeline. I put a lot of pressure on myself to please everyone. Recognizing all this, creates a space for me to be open to coaching.
It was almost two years ago when I had a work meeting that brought me to tears. The things that were spoken left me feeling humiliated and bullied. It was awful. I was stressed and angry. Verbiage aside, I was asked to take a class at the community college to “up my skills”. I had resisted, I believe, because I was afraid. In my mind, I didn’t have the time. With anything, I knew I would be giving it my 100% which would take a lot of time. I did not like being forced into this “uncomfortable” position. Knowing what I know now, you can only grow from putting yourself in uncomfortable situations. I accepted the request, despite the fact that I was told I was “not very enthusiastic” about it. I wasn’t going to put my job at risk. I immediately registered for the class and became fully committed to learning whatever I could. While I wasn’t that impressed with the instructor and felt like I already knew 80% of the material, I needed to shift my mindset.
My coach and friend, Keith Jones, encouraged me to consider the benefits and growth that could come out of being open to going back to school. I am glad I listened. The following were some of the benefits that came out of taking this class. First, I got an “A” in the class and it gave me the confidence that I could still read, study and excel at anything. Second, the 20% that I did learn has helped me to take on jobs at work that I may have not been able to do before. And, finally, taking this one class has set my path in motion for continuing my education in something I’m really passionate about, and I’ve taken a class every semester since then. Tomorrow I start a new 8-week accelerated class! I’ve got this!
I have also been very fortunate to teach TRX classes at the ToBeRe… studio. This is an honor and an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s confidence and fitness level. I love it! However, despite three TRX certifications, the gift of teaching comes mostly from experience and having a good mentor. My mentor, Keith, use to teach all the TRX classes and they were fun and effective for everyone! When I was asked to lead a small part of the class, it was, at first, very uncomfortable. I needed to please everyone. I needed to challenge the advanced people and make them feel like they got a great workout. Yet, I also needed to instruct the beginners and make sure they had a positive experience staying safe and having plenty of encouragement. This is all completely possible as TRX is a multi-level class, where everyone, ultimately, can challenge themselves to their own ability. However, it takes practice and being open to coaching to become a good instructor. Only then can you improve. I will embrace constructive feedback because I know it will not only be good for me, but everyone who I teach.
In the pursuit of personal growth, what is it that you think you could do better? Do you have someone who will be open and honest with you? Will they hold you accountable? Can you be open to the coaching? This is what our ToBeRe… and 2BeRe-U communities are all about. Find out how you can become a stronger total being. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain!
Amy