SS-INTROSPECT #7 : GOOSIP OR GAINZ?
Blah blah blah blah.... sometimes the chatter in the gym is so loud it SCREAMS through the headphones. Your ear canals are flooded with music but somehow the chatter leaks through. The crazy part is you know the real truth. It takes strength to really lock in and build a better body. Laser focus on each set; making a mind-body connection. It's almost impossible to speak. You're too worried about exceeding a rest period or losing your flow state. But here comes that one person who ignores the "unspoken headphone rule". They still feel the need to tap you on the shoulder and smile. As an exceptionally respectful citizen, you smile back and reluctantly remove an earbud. "Yes" you reply, trying not to give away your dismay. But they never get the hint. They take full advantage of the moment and spill their daily agenda all over your super set. But how do you communicate effectively and better yet efficiently in these situations? How do you finesse your way back into body sculpting glory?
Well first you have to activate the basic foundation that you already know about communication. This will save you from an awkward experience that leaves a bad taste in your mouth and theirs. Things like treating all men/women with the same respect keeps the 'annoyance' out of your tone. This will allow you to effectively reply and not seem rude as the conversation dies off . You must also adapt your replies to the type of person you're dealing with. A trainer who thinks his conversation will fix your form deserves one response. A gym pal who wants to vent about sleeping with their trainer, is a whole different story. When dealing with an expert, remain humble and give your full attention. Allow your body language and eye contact to show you're engaged but remain silent until they finish. Always remember though, no man has allllllll the answers. Take the things that can help you, but don't lose sight of what motivates and works best for you. You are still the captain of your own ship. The map to your growth and wind for your sails already dwell within you.
When dealing with the gossiping gym pal, silence and eye contact is still key. But when they dive into negativity you dive into morality. Correct them by looking down and giving neutral responses like "to each his own '' and "well it is what it is ". This will allow them to unburden themselves while still knowing you're here to grow and not connect to bullshit. The easiest is someone you feel is a novice and SEARCHING for help. It's clear you have inspired them and they are hanging on your every word. You can help them lay the foundation you already live by, while dictating length of conversation. Let them know how important silence and focus are to your success and growth.
No matter if it's the chatty trainer trying to catch a sale or the novice gym follower. You can still control the situation and remain focused. This is your sanctuary, your place of growth . One of the only places that is designed to invest in the primary gift god allowed you. You must protect your self-care time at all cost. This protection starts with staying in a winning mindset and maneuvering through distractions. You are the gracious leader here to lead this beautiful body into growth and perfect imperfection.
Silence and eye contact shows engagement.
Alignment with only growing conversation keeps you inspired.
Actions over words makes you inspiring.