Coaching Corner: Getting to Know You

“Comparison is the thief of joy,” this is a quote that was first spoken by Theodore Roosevelt and can really resonate with a lot of people. In our quest to become our best selves it can be tempting to look around at others and get discouraged with our efforts and with ourselves. Be on guard against the temptation; stay focused on your journey.

Diversity is what makes the world unique. We all have different things that we bring to the table. Different strengths and abilities, different perspectives and yes, different body types as well. Here are 3 ways that we can stay focused on our journey and live a joy-filled life.

1.    Know who you are and be clear of your vision

“The more you know who you are, and what you want, the less you let things upset you.” –Lost in Translation

Know yourself; know your strengths and motivators. Know those things that you do well and what you value. If you are unsure take these questions to the classroom of silence. Close the door on the busy world and brainstorm. Here are some more questions for self reflection.

• What is one goal that motivates you?


• What is something that you look forward to almost every day?


• What is the best compliment that you have received?


• What is one quote or reminder worth reviewing daily?

2.    Every life is unique and different

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid” – Albert Einstein

Know that you are unique and different. Look at what YOU are the best at doing. Look at athletes in the wide world of sports, there are many different body types that make them the best at what they do. Michael Phelps’s has a body build for swimming, not sprinting like Usain Bolt. Gymnast Shawn Johnson won 3 silver and 1 gold medals in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. She is open about her struggles with body image.

 

“I was at the Olympic Games winning medals and I still doubted my image. I doubted what I looked like. That's sad. Girls should be taught different than that. I think everyone should be taught different than that." –Shawn Johnson

Always be your best and know you have different abilities, strengths, and celebrate that!

3.    Become the best version of YOURSELF

“Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.” - Judy Garland

Do not try to be anyone else then you. This does not mean that we are not open to change and growth, just the opposite we are continuing to learn and grow into who we are. Pursue those things that you enjoy and celebrate progress! Keep that vision in front of you. Glance at others only in passing, stay focused on your journey and be joyful!