This is a quote from the book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” and since reading it I have changed the way I interact with friends, family and clients.
It has allowed me to empathize with others and understand the reasoning behind their actions. I try to put myself in their shoes before jumping to conclusions.
Today, I wanted to touch on how it has effected my professional life.
I love my job, but it can be challenging. I am dealing with people on a very emotional level- witnessing vulnerabilities and insecurities. They are unhappy with their bodies and feel heartache because they have forgotten what it’s like to feel beautiful for their husband. Some are frustrated because they can’t run around with their grand kids, or because they get winded from walking to a neighbors house.
A trainer can easily be blamed for a client not reaching their weight loss goals. We are an easy target. You pay us money and the weight will fall off, right? This isn’t the case if you aren’t putting forth some effort as well, but I’ve learned that there is always something I could do better. If a client isn’t working out on the days that we don’t meet, I should hold them accountable with emails and text messages. If their diet is out of control, I need to implement a food diary, or show them how to use MyFitnessPal. Sometimes all it takes is turning on drill sergeant mode to kick their butt in gear.
I’ve learned to take a step back and understand where they are coming from before expecting them to understand me. In turn, it has helped build some of the most amazing relationships. It’s created breakthrough’s and allowed clients to overcome plateau’s.
I challenge you to take this quote with you today and implement it at least once. Seek to understand a co- worker or employee before placing the blame on them.
Let me know how it goes!
