Always one for a moment of self-reflection.  

Just back from our March  Lanzarote Freestyle Camp which has been an absolute joy.  Meeting new swimmers, sharing an intensive moment in time learning together, immersed, focussed and having fun.

The process of technique change and improvement requires rethinking, unlearning, we create challenge both in the pool and the open water, take swimmers to the edge if not beyond their comfort zones, which can create moments of vulnerability, disorientation or uncertainty, which can feel momentarily unsettling.

As Coaches we must always be careful to pay attention and be present to the energy, and internal fireworks of each swimmer, the non verbal interactions, the ‘unconscious’ facial expressions and body language we see during coaching sessions.

 

When managed well these challenges ultimately lead to growth a better understanding and transformation.

Which reminded me of a passage from Brene Browns – Strong Ground

‘Real transformations are relational and attention intensive, absolutely disorientating and immersive. It’s obvious to us when we are in the midst of a well executed transformation and when we are not transformation is thrilling and scary it’s clarity creating and it’s disorientating, people look brave because they’re trying new things and they feel vulnerable because they’re trying new things = the definition of courage.’

This is certainly true of the last few days, self improvement is courageous.