Critical Point

My dad participated in a podcast today and he did a terrific job staying on message. Further, the interviewer did a great job of asking good questions and steering the conversation.

That’s not to say my dad’s performance was perfect. There were a few things I’d like to have him change.

However, I also know he’s very happy with his performance.

Where is the fine line between coaching for greater performance and leaving a very solid performance alone — letting someone savor their victory?

I struggle with this all the time. I see Good Wolf athletes’ comments in their workouts, important details about how excellent they felt in a training session. Sometimes, I want to leave “well enough” alone — but I can’t.

My belief is that if an athlete executes a workout exactly to the specs I’ve suggested, or if they put in extra effort…they’re really investing some of their soul into that session. And their soul deserves my full perspective and appreciation no matter what.

Even if I have something to say that an athlete may not want to hear.

Especially when I have something to say that an athlete may not want to hear!

That’s why they’re hiring me, I think.

So yeah, dad, expect a call from me tomorrow. I can’t help myself.

But, it’s only because I saw you bare your soul and put yourself out there for public scrutiny today. And that deserves the best and most acute criticism I can offer.