Do you second guess yourself as a trainer?
Hello all! The other day I had what I feel is an awesome idea for a group class. Although I have been training for two years I sometimes have really good ideas but never make them into reality because I start second guessing myself. Does this happen to the rest of you? How do you just get out there and do it without overthinking everything?
Hi Missy,
you can always test a small portion of your idea in an existing format and ask for feedback. Another way to dip your toes into a new creation is to use a few participants and ask whether they would be willing to be part of a pilot class to see how it would work. They will probably be flattered to be asked. Just asked them for candid feedback of what they liked and what they did not.
Karin Singleton
www.meltnc.com
Fear of success stops a lot of ideas from blossoming.
The feedback you’ve received so far has been good.
I’m pretty adventurous when it comes to launching new formats / methods / equipment. At the same time, before i test it on anyone, i think it through. How will it benefit my existing clients? What will it do that my clients aren’t already getting? How will it help me get new clients? Is it safe? How passionate am I about it?
Hi Missy,
Yes, it is easy to second guess yourself (especially in this business with so much competition)… What I’ve found over the years of teaching and training is the following:
1. Put yourself out there with your ideas as hard as it is– and get “uncomfortable”. Take risks and act on ideas (even small ones). It is a great way to grow and be successful. You’ll be happy that you did and it will give you confidence to go on to the next triumph.
2. If something “fails”–so what?! One step closer to success. Instead of thinking of it as a failure, just think of it as a learning experience and a chance to grow stronger.
3. Keep your eye focused on your training mission and philosophy. Do your new ideas support them? Pay attention to your own purpose in fitness (and not all of the competition) and watch it grow in your passion.
I often tell my clients that there are many paths to the same goal. Each trainer/instructor is different with their approach, but they can all achieve many of the same goals. It’s all good!
Good luck!
Christine
Hello Missy Reece,
It can be a good thing to second guess, that means you are always willing to learn. With that goes the other side of the spectrum…willing to try new things. I like to go with the flow; try it myself first; if it does not “work,” move on to the next thing. There are so many options to choose from which are different for every person. The clients will even help you when they come up with their own way to accomplish moves. Remember, exercise is truly a personal thing in personal training. The best part of our business is being able to use our imaginations for creative boredom busting.
Take care,
Natalie aka NAPS 2 B Fit.