Seven Life & Leadership Lessons-Vol. 2

As I wind down my last few weeks of training before my Ironman event on October 2nd, I have penned three takeaways following my Introduction and Vol. 1 of Seven Life & Leadership Lessons I have learned on this journey. While swimming, biking, and running, I committed to put my thoughts into three volumes which encapsulate seven total lessons. I am excited to share this second volume, including the next three principles…?

1.? Lean In with Purpose – There is something more than physical that happens when you lean in. It is a demonstration of being intentional and focused. Your body language makes a statement as you lean in – zeroing in on an objective. For example, we are better listeners when we lean in while others are talking. When we block out distractions and are intentional with our focus, that action is a contributor to being a better friend, spouse, and parent. The slight adjustment of leaning in (physically and mentally) can make a big difference. So, how does this “leaning in with purpose” apply to triathlons?

• Swimming: When swimming, if you slightly lean your head and chest to the bottom of the pool (as if swimming downhill), this raises your hips and legs to streamline your body, positioning you to glide through the water with less resistance. Less resistance = quicker swim.?
• Biking: Most bikes use handlebars which position the rider in an upright position. Using aerobars and riding in a downward position, eliminates about 85% of the body’s air resistance. The biker works less and rides faster.
• Running: Running completely upright causes heel-strike pounding, which is hard on the back. However, if one leans the chest slightly forward, the upper body will guide the legs, propelling you forward. Leaning in, smooths and speeds the pace.?

2.??Don’t Be Busy, Get Busy – Admittedly, life is busy, but we are ultimately in control of our priorities and time. We have constraints that determine where portions of our time will be allocated, but the time outside of those constraints, is ours to fill however we determine. If you are overwhelmed, switch your focus, and regroup. You are the master of your calendar and how you fill your time. Remove obligations that create a negative busy. Don’t Be Busy, “Get Busy” with the things that fulfill you. There will not be an extra 18 hours/week simply granted to you to pursue an Ironman or any other important objective. We must create time by getting busy doing what’s most important - what’s most impactful.?

3.??Master the 4th Discipline - There is a point when working harder or longer isn’t going to bring more improvement. It is impossible to get better at the three disciplines of swimming, biking and running by overtraining – it actually will create setbacks, and possibly injuries. This applies to life as well. The 4th?discipline is: “Take Care of YOU.” There is beauty in balance. This includes proper nutrition, sleep, stretching, downtime, etc.. All of the actions that check the “Take Care of YOU” box, collectively make up the 4th?Discipline. Master the 4th Discipline and you will be more well-rounded and fulfilled. Whatever goals we have in life, they mean nothing if we aren’t taking care of ourselves so we can, as healthy individuals, fulfill those goals.?

Up Next: Vol. 3 – Chase the Goal, Savor the Journey & Cross the Finish Line

More soon. Gotta swim-bike-run! - Chris