of practice. While working with several Olympic runners, including Meb Keflezighi and Deena Kastor, he found that they did not like to eat prior to running. They said they couldn't do it. After a little practice they were able to eat before running. Some athletes said they couldn't consume more than a few ounces of fluid while running. After a little practice they were able to do it.
I've seen this fixed mindset in myself and others. If we can't do something the first time or second, we believe it's not possible. Cancer patients believe they can't eat because they don't have an appetite. Runners believe they can't consume the recommended calories during a race because it upsets their stomach. I fear that I will never master Motivational Interviewing because I struggle with it.
Typically the problem is a result of a failure to practice. I read a book on MI and I've occasionally looked back over my notes, but I have never deliberately practiced the skill. On the other hand, every Saturday I practice consuming calories each mile during my long runs in accordance with my race day plan. As a result, my stomach tolerates the calories I need to perform.
If you want to be better with confrontation, don't just read a book, practice it. If you want to have more confidence, develop a plan and practice it. If you want to learn any new skill, be intentional and practice it. Just because you can get by without practice today, doesn't mean you will be able to excel later. I can get by without practicing MI with most of my clients, but I eventually struggle with the highly resistant ones.
Weekly Quickies: Short Frequent Intentional Behaviors to Unconscious Habits.
Practice doesn't have to be long or arduous.
Small behaviors performed frequently build exponentially.
Try 5 minutes, if that's too much, try 1 minute.
If you struggle in the morning, try practicing in the evening
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