Dooley Noted: 2/19/2015
I firmly believe that dissatisfaction drives contentment.
I’m perfectly happy knowing I never quite have enough knowledge. It drives me to get more.
The same goes for strength.
Earlier this week, I had a barbell training session with my StrongFirst colleague and Catalyst SPORT trainer, Long Duong.
Long has a very special presence and skill set.
Since he is a former Marine, I assumed he might choose to yell at me like a drill sergeant. After all, that’s why so many people go to boot camp fitness classes.
That’s the opposite coaching style to which I will respond. And Long is a master of intelligence.
He knew that I needed to first be relaxed, and then I would apply my aggression as needed.
His barbell skills are top notch, no doubt. But his coaching style with me was very calm and focused, with emphasis on how the lift “feels.”
While making sure my lifting mechanics were efficient and safe, I quickly fell in love with the way the bar felt.
Then Long blew my mind.
He said something so significant that I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since.
He said, “The bar is my best friend and worst enemy. It makes me stronger but stops me from being strong. It reminds me I can be even stronger.”
He will never be satisfied. So he will always go back for more.
We all need a reminder that we have no limits.
We can work – struggle – and obtain goals, just to set new ones.
We can feel our current limitations and then blast through them with continuous effort.
You can sit back and let life happen to you. You can be dissatisfied and stay stagnant.
Or, you can use the fuel of dissatisfaction to drive your strength.
As always, it’s your call.
– Dr. Kathy Dooley