December newsletter, 2018: introverts, extroverts, success and alignment (plus, best of reading list)
In the book, “Barking up the Wrong Tree,” Eric Barker spends the better part of a chapter discussing the strengths and weaknesses of introverts and extroverts. Extroverts have large networks, which lead to great connections and increased likelihood of success; introverts spend time by themselves practicing their craft. Professional athletes are often introverts, having spent more hours than most of us can fathom devoted to the betterment of their craft, alone. Neither is better than the other; they’re just different. “So there are successful extroverts and introverts and the world definitely needs both, but chances are, you’re not really either one. Yes, one-third of people are die-hard introverts or 24/7 extroverts, but the remaining two-thirds are called ambiverts. And they’re somewhere in between. It’s a spectrum,” Barker writes.
Understanding people’s social tendencies becomes important when you work with people on a regular basis. I fall pretty strongly into the die-hard introvert category; I love people, but I like them one on one or in small groups. When I go to a public class, I have no desire to be called out. I simply want to come in quietly, go to the back corner, and listen to the teacher’s instructions. When I teach large groups or workshops, I have empathy for those that are there because they want the information, but not necessarily a ton of interaction, and it always brings me joy to watch those same individuals become comfortable enough to be part of the group, participating, smiling, and laughing. If they are like me, they go home and read a book to unwind, but are grateful for the sense of community. Many of my clients fall more on the introverted side of the introvert/extrovert spectrum, feeling more at ease with private instruction rather than a large class, but the extroverts bring a joyful energy (and often friends and spouses, sometimes unannounced, to make the session more of a party).
When it comes to developing a successful business (particularly in a field like yoga or movement where it often feels like extroversion is rewarded), it’s important to remember to do what resonates with you. Authenticity goes so much further with people in a service profession than trying to be something you aren’t. “Success,” Barker contends, “is not the result of any single quality; it’s about alignment between who you are and where you choose to be.”
Find your place in the world by figuring out who you are and what role you can play that let’s you be that person. All of the motivational talks on social media aren’t going to change your natural traits. This doesn’t mean you won’t occasionally have to play a role that’s less comfortable, but if you align your passion with your gifts, you can make a dramatic impact on the world.
For those of you reading this that aren’t service providers of some kind, the same advice can apply to improving your health and well-being. Knowing you prefer working out alone or in a small group rather than large class will help you seek out those environments. When you are in an environment that is comfortable with people that share a common interest, you are more likely to continue doing that activity. The goal, after all, is for movement to be rewarding in some way; the environment can play a big part in your perception of whether the activity was worthwhile or not. Healthy habits are best maintained when you just do you.
Yours in health and wellness,
Jenn
Events:
Holiday Open House, Saturday, December 9 from 9:30-1:00.
Join Jenn and the team from Be Well Personal Training for complimentary classes and holiday snacks as a way to say thank you. Location: 3776 The Barnyard, Carmel, CA 93923. More info: http://www.bewellpt.com/events/2017/12/9/holiday-open-house
Sensing, Feeling, and Integrating the Spine, Saturday, January 27 at 3776 The Barnyard, Carmel , CA 93923, from 12-4.
In this four hour WORKSHOP, Jenn Pilotti, M.S. will discuss the spine's role in movement and exercise. Learn how it connects the upper and lower extremity, how to feel different aspects of the spinal column during breath and movement, and how to create stability and mobility for efficient movement. This workshop is appropriate for Pilates teachers, personal trainers, yoga instructors, or individuals interested in deepening their awareness of this area and their relationship to it. The workshop format will include lecture, partner work, and skills designed to tie together research and practical application. Cost: $90. To register: http://www.bewellpt.com/events/2018/1/27/sensing-isolating-and-integrating-the-spine
Unlocking the Power of the Hips through the Ankles
Saturday, March 24 from 12-4:15 at 360 FitHaus, 1400 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles. More information coming soon.
Recommended reading (from 2017):
Below are books I found thought provoking enough that I either referenced them in articles or the likelihood that I will read them again is high. The list is broken down by category, and this is only a fraction of my reading material for the year; if you have a specific question about a recommendation in a particular category, please message me and I will do my best to point you in a direction that might be helpful. (I am pretty sure if I weren’t in the movement sciences, I would be associated with the book world in some way).
Business:
Barking up the Wrong Tree, by Eric Barker
Hit Makers: The Science of Popularity in an Age of Distraction, by D. Thompson
Somatic disciplines:
Making Connections, by Peggy Hackney
Strength and Conditioning:
Are you Useful, by Chip Conrad
Biophysical Foundations of Human Movement, by Abernathy, et.al. (Textbook. I thought it was a nice overview on the topic).
Science:
The Gene, by Siddhartha Murkhajee
The Tale of the Dueling Neurosurgeons, by Sean Kean
Psychology:
If I Understood You Would I have This Look on My Face? by Alan Alda
Visual Intelligence, by Amy E. Herman (If I were to put together a teaching or apprenticeship program, this book would be a must read. If you observe anything in life for a living, I highly recommend it).
Other:
The Art of Fear, by Kristen Ulmer