Photo courtesy of Nikki Stone
Experienced athletes often like to say that we are so confident, we could execute a maneuver or skill with our eyes closed. Aerialists have to perform each new trick hundreds of times into a pool before we're ever allowed to perform it on snow. So by the time the end of the summer rolls around, we've done so many jumps most of us feel our bodies could almost respond automatically... even while blindfolded.
Despite this confidence, no aerial skier would actually try doing so. Well, no one except Eric Bergoust. My teammate and fellow gold medalist decided he was going to prove that his abundant training could allow him to jump blindfolded.
Another jumper wrapped a scarf tightly around Eric's eyes and pushed him onto the inrun. The rest of us thought Eric was crazy, but with reckless abandon he demonstrated his faith in his training. He soared off the jump, flipped over twice in the air and landed on his skis in the water.
Eric performed his stunt again in the weekly aerial show. This time, in addition to the blindfold, he had his wrists handcuffed behind his back.
Most of us aren't as daring -- or some may argue as crazy -- as Eric Bergoust, but we are confident enough to put a wager on the work we've put in. Ask yourself what about your work or life you are willing to bet on. Within this simple exercise, you'll see where your confidence lies and what areas you need to build. Who knows, maybe you'll be willing to blindly take a huge leap forward as well. I suggest mastering it without the handcuffs first.
Motivational Weight Management Tip
I've had the great honor of working with some of the Biggest Loser contestants and it has inspired me to leave motivational diet, health, and wellness tips at the end of all of my blogs. These tools have been driven from actual advice I've shared.
This week's tip:
Are you brave enough to engage in some friendly competition? Many of us find that a little competition will ignite our motivation. Pick a friend who will be a source of inspiration and challenge them to see who can reach a short term goal first. The competition can also create a level of accountability that will keep you on track.