Change Your Approach

There are times I want to strangle my daughter.

I know that’s not a popular or even prudent thing to say.

See, she just doesn’t LISTEN. Everything can be a struggle sometimes. It’s like she says “DOWN!” if I say “UP!” just for sport, and to watch me grit my teeth, growl like my dad used to, and damn near punch a hole in the wall.

Doesn’t she just realize I’m the MAN OF THE HOUSE!? What I say goes!

Right.

Well, that’s my reality, and it’s valid. Because that’s what I experienced at times growing up (which I’m NOT complaining about.)

It worked, I was scared shitless of Mitch and it kept me in line! (Who wasn’t scared shitless of Mitch back then lol!?!)

Today, there’s a host of papers and books about a new way to parent. A more inclusive method. More sensitive, with a greater sense of partnership with your child. I know this, because the books are at home, on the kitchen table. My wife implores me to read them rather than try to throw them through a window.

When am I going to learn?

When I’m ready to learn.

When banging my head against the wall becomes old…and starts to hurt.

Isn’t it that same way in triathlon training and coaching?

There’s the athlete’s way, and the coach’s way. They’re often not the same, especially at the beginning of a relationship.

It’s the coach’s job, I contend, to meet the athlete where THEY are. Not forcibly drag the athlete to the coach’s philosophy.

So, why haven’t I met Audra where she is?

Ooof.

The problem with connecting athletic coaching with the workplace with the family is when the insights from one cause profound realizations in another area.

Guess I know what my reading material is going to be for the next few weeks.