I have to admit…I like to get my heart racing.  I like to try things outside my comfort level – not risky, just to push myself.  I like the components of a goal, a timeframe, required practice or actions…and of course  the ‘prize’.  So when my oldest daughter emailed and ‘baited’ me with a free t-shirt, something new, and yes a medal…she had me.

We signed up for our first adventure/obstacle race…she and her husband agreed to stick with me for the 5K obstacle course…and she reassured me I’d be fine.

Here are my top 5 learning’s:

1.        Rewards work, whether you are 5 or 50…I heard medal for all finishers and I was signing up.

2.       Measurements do play into the logical persons mind set = 5K sounds doable…even when you haven’t ran all summer…I can get back on the treadmill…”easy breezy” – 4 weeks no problem.

3.       Expect the unexpected – prepare to adjust…spraining your ankle 3 weeks before event…makes you reflect can you do this?....should you do this? …to how can I do this?  Practice timelines get thrown out the window.  Be prepared to adjust the plan.

4.       Anxiety rises...don’t let fear or anxiety stop you.  Face the anxiety and research…tweak the plan…Just how long should you postpone exercising with a sprained ankle?…Facts are good, common sense is key, and listening to your gut is powerful…as a motivator and to ensure you are wise…not stupid.  Be sure not to use fear as an excuse to quit.

5.       Know your desired outcome – my original outcome was to race with my daughter and son-in-law and experience something new…the outcome was realistic when I signed up and remained realistic…as long as the ankle held up.

The Go Commando Race was fun, and our badges of honor were muddy shoes and clothes.  The ankle held, and the three of us finished the race together.    Whether you’re trying something new, or wanting to engage your team to achieve new heights in their performance find what peaks their interest and identify your plan – and expect to adjust the plan.

Lighthouse Leadership coaches draw from their 30 plus years of corporate experience, along with life experiences to help guide you to new heights in your career.