You really have to be genuine, open, humble, inclusive and give it time to work through differences.
And differences are to be viewed as "gifts", soft is better than rugged and flexible is better than rigid.
Chapter 1 was background on the author's experience in 4 different successful communities.
Chapter 2 was the difference between Rugged Individualism and Soft Individualism.
Chapter 3 is defining community.
I think my neighbor gave me this book, because he and other neighbors view me as a connector in our shared community. I take this viewpoint as a great and cherished honor and I feel excited that my gifts are appreciated and valued.
There are so many things I'm not good at (DIY) or don't like to do, that are normal and accepted for others (e.g. I often won't heat my leftovers b/c it's too much work).
For many of my neighbors, writing an email, speaking up to the powers that be and simply connecting people is really appreciated and for the most part, they're super easy for me.
When we were stuck in the hotel, so we had an address, so Vivi could start school, while our house was being finished, we were blown away how a community of strangers to us, brought us food and made lunches and snacks for our daughter. Who does that? There were so many different families that did it too (maybe 5 to 7) and did it multiple times.
How can you not feel grateful and want to contribute.
CYBBC
It's like CYBBC. You already know how special of a community we have and how lovely all the people we get to train with are. You hear as much as people feel comfortable in sharing. I often wonder if I over share.
In the beginning I only shared positives. It was appealing, but it was in-authentic (is that the right word). Many could see through it b/c I obviously wasn't perfect, yet I only shared perfect stories.
Over time, I've tried to share more real stories: embarrassing, humbling, hard, mistakes, losses, ... all in an effort to be more real, trustworthy and connecting.
Some were turned off. Some were grateful. It's an evolution.
Sidelines
One of my favorite things about sports and there are many is the camaraderie. The locker room. The friendships.
When I was a successful personal trainer and veered away from teams and groups, the thing I missed the most was the sidelines. The shared goals. Teams.
I aimed to recreate that with CYBBC and I have. I'm so proud of it.
Family
When I was starting out and building my business, mentors used to say treat your clients like family.
Really? I always thought I needed to keep it strictly professional like with the Red Sox, but they said no. Treat them like family and they'll really know you care.
Shoot. That's easy. I'm from a huge family. I've tried to do that ever since.
The hardest part for me is integrating you with my family and friends because of the numbers and logistics. If I'm from a huge family on all sides and that doesn't include then friends. How do I also include my neighbors and clients who are dear to me. My house is only so big. I can only make so many tacos. I can only drive so far and so many times across the state to borrow tables, chairs and tents.
It's a blessed challenge and certainly not a problem. It's also not intended to be boastful, though I can understand if it's received that way.
Where are you going with all of this Mike?
Community. CYBBC has it. It's always growing and evolving. It can never be taken for granted. I hope this book shows me how to make it even better and it already is.
Feedback = Consensus
Chapter 3 talked about differences vs. sameness, authoritarian vs. democracy, inclusive vs. exclusive and Consensus was the big takeaway so far. Everyone had the right to share in true community and it wasn't majority rule when it came to a decision, but rather consensus. That was interesting.
I'm always asking you for feedback because you're the end user, the client. I want you to have a great experience. The program should be safe, fun and get you results. I write notes on my clipboard when you share them, add them to the spreadsheet and try to implement them into future workouts or on the spot if possible.
Some people love density circuits. Some people love interval circuits.
Some people love going back & forth between 2 exercises. Others 3 and 4.
I try to cover it all over the course of a year.
Q3: phases 7, 8, 9 & 10
As I reviewed the notes from last years Q3, there was feedback from different people on what they didn't like, but what people did liked and what not to change. I debated whether I should keep that feedback or not, but I thought it was important to keep the positive b/c it was working and people were happy.
Magic Week
Next week is magic week. It's the last week of the phase and quarter. Show up as best you can, rested and ready to get the most out of each workout.
If you go up in weight and/or level, you're trying to get 2 sets of 4.
If you're the same weight and/or level, you're trying to get 2-3 sets of 8 for upper body and 6 each for lower body.
Benches
I had discussed a new bench I found that I thought might be really great, but when I read the reviews they were awful.
Here are (2) benches that are pretty good and compliment Power Blocks.
PowerBench 2.0 Adjustable Weight Bench, 74 lbs., can hold 1,000lbs., attachment options, $349.00
Power Block Portable Weight Bench, 29 lbs., can hold 500 lbs., $179.99
I have not used either bench, but if I had known about the PowerBench 2.0, I would have considered it for myself, because of the 1,000lb. capacity. It reads like both should be good for Step Ups & 1-Leg Squats. Those without true gym space, should consider the Portable Weight Bench. Those with dedicated gym space should consider the adjustable weight bench. Those that need a 2nd bench should consider one.
Everyone who trains at home, should eventually get a bench. You can thank me later.
