Workout Wisdom Peloton Edition - part 3
We’re halfway through my latest workout wisdom series!
3. You will find your pack. When I got my bike I tried out a few rides with some of the instructors I’d heard of - ones that were popular enough that I was aware of them even before I downloaded the app or took a single class. While I enjoyed the classes because I was so starved for structured sweaty workouts, the energy of these classes was not what I was looking for. These instructors were too perky and inspirational for me. I spent a few weeks trying out different types of classes with different instructors and found “my" people - the ones who focused more on technical coaching and less on spirituality and affirmations.
It took trial and error and an open mind to find the crew that I now know I can count on for the right level of chatter and challenge. And I continue to try new classes and instructors and continue to add faces to my favorites. Once in a while I will go back to someone I didn’t think was “for me” and try a class when I’m feeling more open or want a change from my usual. Sometimes I like them more than I initially did. Sometimes I quit the class 5 minutes in and go back to a favorite.
The fitness coach is an obvious parallel to a mentor, coach or manager in a work setting. And just like it took me trial and error and adjusting my expectations to find my people, it can take trial and error and adjusting expectations to find the right people to support you through your career. In real life you have the advantage of being able to actually talk to your coach, and they get to know you as much as you get to know them. This means that they can (and should) adjust their style to better give you what you need. You should not be afraid to make those needs clear. If you’re like so many people in the Peloton world and appreciate a milestone shoutout when you hit your 100th ride or a 10 day streak, let your manager or coach know that you welcome spoken or written recognition for your achievements. They may be someone like me who doesn’t naturally think to do that and needs to be reminded about differing sources of motivation. If you’re in the manager or coach role remember to pay attention to what makes your report perk up. How do they respond to different kinds of feedback. Make a mental note of what makes them smile or stand a little taller, and do more of that!
Sometimes the match just isn’t right, and it’s ok accept that and move on. Hopefully there’s someone else within your organization who you can work with who better aligns with the balance of practical guidance and overall inspiration you need to thrive. And if that’s not available in your organization, look outside for mentors who can fill the voids.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for what you need. Your manager might have very different preferences and needs of their own, but once you clarify what you need, they may be happy to be the person who provides the exact support you want.
Come back later this week for part 4.