'Kung Fu' Dave from Derby

Dave from Derby

[Or more accurately, Dave en-route to Derby]

That was my 8:30am this morning.  Unprompted, spontaneous, yet brilliant.

I boarded the train at Birmingham New Street and noticed the book almost at once.  After all, it's not often that you see a book full of Kung Fu pictures annotated with handwritten notes. My curiosity was triggered - a fact that Dave (as I later learnt he was called) - immediately noticed.

From the moment I glanced at the book, Dave and I struck up a dialogue that lasted for the duration of my journey.  It was the most memorable 8:30am that I can remember for some time.

Over the next 20 minutes I learnt that Dave was a Kung Fu instructor - passionate about his sport, his charity work and the young adults he trained (including his two young sons).  In return, Dave learnt about my passions - coaching, development, family... to name a few.

We discussed limiting beliefs (the barriers to success that people impose on themselves through their own thoughts, feelings and insecurities) and some of the coaching techniques we have both used to overcome these.  We talked about the importance of role models in building self-confidence and belief.  And we talked about the importance of positivity and positive momentum in driving extraordinary levels of performance.  Numerous other topics followed, spanning the worlds of HR, martial arts and parenthood.

By the time the train drew into Derby, I felt I had known Dave for more than the short 20 minutes we shared.  Moreover, as we parted ways, our conversation left me inspired, uplifted and energised for the day ahead.  Pretty apt given that I was meeting one of our talented sales team for a day in the field with customers.

What's interesting is the context...

Whilst diversity is a subject close to my heart, I honestly don't think Dave and I would have shared a conversation had we not been brought together by chance.  Let me illustrate:

• Dave casually dressed >> Me in business's attire
• My background one of educational achievement and 'conventional' career progression >> Dave's background one of being expelled from multiple schools, a stint in prison and time in the armed forces
• Dave's choice of reading a 'Kung Fu' book >> My choice of reading the latest CIPD 'People Management' magazine

However, despite appearing worlds apart, the richness of dialogue was superb.  I'm convinced this was due to the diversity of our life experiences and 'differences' (more so than our shared passion in helping others' to grow and succeed).  

As I reflect now, it's a reminder of the need to appreciate everyone I come across during my daily life, to seek out experiences beyond my 'norm', and to be humble in terms of the unconscious bias(es) that I may harbour.

This is one chance encounter that I will remember for some time.

Ps. If you are looking for a Kung Fu instructor near Derby... I now know a great guy called Dave!