One of my mentors said, “Everyone needs a coach.” I changed it to “Everyone
needs a coach sometimes,” because I believe we can each be self-motivated
enough to make some improvements on our own. However, there is definitely
a place for seeking out a professional to move beyond our own resources and
limitations, and learning something new is often a requirement to reach high
levels of performance. It is important to choose coaches carefully. Both dive instructors and fitness professionals need to carry current and proper credentials.
Divers will often find the most committed and successful instructors are those
with regular and consistent continuing education. Good
instructors and coaches will respect that an individual is
reaching out to them for their expertise and inspiration,
and be certain not to exploit or take negative advantage
of their position in the relationship. Good students will
bring their personal best all the time – physically, mentally and emotionally.
In the book “Awakening the Olympian Within” compiled by Jim Naber, Olympic Gold Medalist Nancy
Hogshead, the most decorated swimmer in the 1984
Olympics in Los Angeles, wrote, “Success is a Learned
Skill.” About Being Coachable, she said:
“Everyone talks about finding a mentor or mentoring others, but few talk about the skills needed to be
mentorable, to be coachable. I define being coachable
as giving another person permission to demand the
very best of you. I don’t mean following someone blindly, ignoring your ideas
or principles. I’m talking about having a goal big enough that you’re willing to
step outside your comfort zone – in your relationships with others – and to allow someone else to contribute.”
Fitness boot camp was a lot of fun and I am going again tomorrow…and I did
learn something new.
For more information about
healthy diving,contact
Gretchen at www.scubafit.com
TM