Monday, June 17, 2013

Do We Scare You?

If you follow my stuff, you’ve probably heard me mention that I read Daniel Coyle’s latest book, “The Little Book of Talent: 52 Tips For Improving Your Skills”, recently.

It has tons of great tips that we’ve applied at the TR but one of the tips was a section on choosing the right coach.  Choosing the right coach according to Coyle, is imperative to your success.  In Coyle’s travels around the globe, only those who had top level coaching rose to the top.

One of his suggestions was the following when choosing a coach:

“Seek Someone Who Scares You A Little.”

He continued:

“Look for someone who is honest, sometimes unnervingly so.  He will tell you the truth about your performance in clear language.  This stings at first.  But you’ll come to see that it’s not personal – it’s the information you can use to get better.”

That quote may hit a little too close to home for TR members.

But I write it as a reminder that when I write to you and tell you something you don’t want to hear, it’s not personal – I’m just doing my job. 

Along those lines here is today’s tip for you: (and I’m sure you’re not going to like it).

YOU ARE NOT TOO BUSY.

There.  I said it.

Time and money, or lack thereof, are the runaway leaders in excuses – sorry – “reasons” (coughcough) given to not commit to an exercise program.

Well I’ll say it again:  You are not too busy.

Here’s how I know:

I’ve been supervising peoples training programs for a LONG time.  I’ve seen many people attain great results.  And not one of them had a boat load of free time outside the TR.

NOT ONE.

I’ve yet to train a person who was independently wealthy.  One who didn’t have a job, kids, spouse, home, etc.  One who could afford cooks, cleaners, maids, nannys, landscapers, etc.

Nope. Every one of them had other major commitments outside the exercise world, but they figured out a way to get it done.  They didn’t say “I don’t have time”.  They made time and did it.  As a result, they like the way they look, the way they feel and the way they perform.

I’ve mentioned TR member Leigh Stoecker, recently.  Leigh is mother to a one year old, step-mom to two tweens, owns and operates a business, and planned and participated in a wedding (her own) less than two months ago.  She also suffers from asthma and joint pain from pre-existing conditions.  If anyone has excuses to say I’m too busy and skip the gym – Leigh does.

Do you know what Leigh’s done in less than 2 months?  She was one of the winners of our swimwear accountability group where she dropped body fat and weight, but got stronger.  She also completed a Spartan Race in Tuxedo NY on 6/1 with team TR.

So if you find yourself saying you’re too busy, take it from someone who knows better – you’re not.

-         
            Your “unnervingly” honest coach and trainer - JR


Try telling Leigh you're too busy...