Along with the new year comes all the resolutions. I'm not the biggest fan of new years resolutions because if it's that important, you would already be doing it. However, I like that it's a time of year to reflect on what you want to progress or change. As always, write it down.
One resolution I have made this year is to stop saying a word that is vague, labeling, and a waste of noise.
"Good."
At first it looks positive but it's been my achilles heal for a while now. Since I first started as an intern, I had the habit of saying "good" all the time. No matter if the athlete was efficient or inefficient, the first word out of my mouth always was good. How vague and aimless is that? The athlete's had no idea what was good, and furthermore I feel it makes them complacent of improving because I just labeled them.
Who knows why I automatically say it, could be some sort of insecurity, nervous habit, or I just like to hear my own voice. Whatever the reason is, I am going to break the habit. I have already started, by consciously saying what I liked or want to improve instead of "good." For instance, "That's how you get your hips back," or "nice job adjusting your position." Even better when it's not what I was looking for, I get to ask them the question on what they think could improve.
I still fight it though, this habit is not easy for me to break. I use my athlete's as a nicotine patch. Their job is to give me 20 push-ups every time I say "good," "nice," or any other vague word that they feel wasn't productive instruction. They love nothing more to dish these out, and it makes me a better coach.
My words are now more concise, purposeful, instructive, and it keeps the atmosphere light when the coach has to drop and give them 20.
What ways could you improve your communication this year? Do you have a common phrase that only creates more noise? Let me know!
I find this posting super interesting because I find myself saying "good" all the time too...I'm not an athletic trainer, not yet at least, but my friends always come to me for help and I always say "good job" instead of actually telling them what they're doing is right and why its good for their body.
ReplyDeleteI also sometimes say "almost there" or "not quite" all so vague!!
I'm trying to just give straightforward feedback!
As a Remedial Massage Therapist I have a horrible habit of every time a client asked "how's my tension" my instant response is "yeah not too bad" or "nothing serious" when really I should start pointing out areas that they can work on at home, or even areas that I want to work on during appointments
ReplyDeleteI'm trying to be more constructive with how I explain things!
I'm glad I'm not the only one. Just being aware and saying something different builds a new brain map and will lead to better communication. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI really like this Casey. Dave Mckay
ReplyDeletethanks Dave! hope all is well in Florida!
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