The world loves a specialist. There’s something inspiring about someone who’s incredible at one thing, whether it’s sprinting or cracking safes. Someone who has combined superb talent with an incredible work ethic and can show you in clear, uncomplicated terms. But what of the rest of us? What about you, Johnny?
You’re special in more complex ways. I don’t say that as some kind of bland assurance. What I mean is that most of us can’t fit our talents into a spotlight because they’re the combination of several different factors – more of a Venn diagram than a circle.
It’s a bit like the concept of ikigai. The middle bit doesn’t exist on its own; it emerges from a combination of other qualities.
There’s one woman I know who has pretty good coordination. Is it great? Maybe it could have been if she’d been grown up as a dancer or martial artist. But, she didn’t – so, her coordination remains merely pretty good. She’s also pretty focused when she works out. Focused like a Zen master? Well, no. But pretty good all the same. And while there’s plenty to distract her in her day-to-day life, we’ve found that giving her more coordination-intensive activities helps level up that focus.
Is her whole life built around working out? Oh lord, no. She’s got a bunch of other stuff that are more important BUT she’s crystal clear on the value of long-term health in supporting those other things, so she gets the job done without drama or hesitation. Oh, did I mention her leg strength? It’s… wait for it… pretty good.
What we’ve been finding over the past several months is that she’s got a knack for kettlebell work. It’s effective, it’s engaging, and it gets the job done. So, things have shaken out into a very personal Venn diagram.
Can I reveal your exercise Venn diagram? Well, I can advise on it, but only you are truly qualified to know what that is. Coaches like us can help move the spotlight around until we both see the big picture – and then help you find the centre.
Space update
We are a week and a half into our new space at 91 Walnut Avenue. We’re still smoothing out some wrinkles but it’s all coming together. Meanwhile… Well, here’s the view from where I’m typing this:
Tough to get mad at this view
The latest
I’ve got a few more big things to tackle and about 100 more little things. I’m keeping track of all requests, so please don’t be shy about letting me know what can make the space work better for you.
Wishing you a beautiful long weekend.
GG
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One essay a week, written by Geoff. No hype.