We all need a ‘spotter’

Recently, Olive assumed the role of my ‘spotter’ during my morning training.

At eight years old she is finally able (and willing) to watch over me during bench press, adding just enough force to prevent me from being ‘pinned’ during big lifts.

This is amazing because it lets me push closer to my limits, knowing that I have a couple newtons of force from Olive, waiting on standby.

I have operated without a spotter for many years in my home gym, which restricted my ability to safely test the limits of lifting.

A really great spotter learns to ‘jump in’ with the minimum amount of force required to get a lift unstuck, which enables training at maximum output.

It struck me how great leaders, mentors, and guides all operate with these same principles.

Observing with care from the sidelines and waiting to assist with the minimum necessary force, allows you to make personal growth under ‘pressure’ without losing the challenge of accountability and responsibility.

Next time you are in the mentorship role, ask “how might I?” use the minimum amount of assistance, to allow your mentee to grow through autonomy of trust and independence.

• Now that’s a peak ethos.