Coaching Takes Vulnerability
Coach Kate Levels Up
We are all on a journey. We all have room to grow and improve. This past weekend I was reminded that growth takes vulnerability. I had the opportunity to take the next step in my CrossFit journey by taking my CrossFit Level 2 certification. Some context: The CrossFit Level 1 is the introductory education course to CrossFit. It goes over the basic movements and methodology of CrossFit, it explains what we are trying to teach. CrossFit Level 2 is designed to refine our coaching skills while coaching others in movements and workouts. It teaches us how to coach from expert CrossFit Seminar Staff Coaches. It was a great opportunity, but it was uncomfortable because I was putting myself out there to be scrutinized.
At Midstate CrossFit everyone at some point is the “new member”. I deeply respect the courage of beginners, who often feel uncomfortable and insecure. Just taking the first step through the door can be the most difficult part, and then coming in and learning all these new and different exercises, it can be intimidating. I greatly admire the bravery of beginners and get so excited to think of the life changing and courageous choice they made by taking that step through the door.
Similarly, when I walked into Level 2, I was very excited but also very nervous. As we started the first breakout group, my nerves started to grow. I have spent hundreds of hours coaching, but this was different. I was coaching other coaches and being critiqued. Don't get me wrong, that's what level 2 is all about, we need to be observed and given feedback in order to grow as a coach. Sure, I was nervous, however, I knew it was important to fight through the insecurities and trust my “coach's eye” and instincts.
We are all on a journey. We all have room to grow, to develop, to evolve. We all face insecurities. Making the choice in life to be brave, to choose vulnerability, to choose growth. It is how we pursue our fullest potential as human beings.
My CrossFit Level 2 was a reminder that feedback is not discouraging, it's encouraging! I had an incredible experience and learned so many great skills that I can't wait to share. If you're passionate about something like I am about coaching and CrossFit I hope this message empowers you to pursue it. Just like developing my “coach eye” and coaching abilities, it’s not about the destination, it is about the journey.
