Own Your Greatness—But Don’t Take It Too Seriously
I have a few standard lines when I pass people from behind while running on our local trail.
As I’m coming up to pass, you’ll hear me, "On your left."
It’s fascinating to see how fast people move to the right. And then as I pass, I say something like, "No speed records—just on your left."
Now if you hear me and turn around before I say anything, as I’m passing I say, "It just sounds like I’m running fast."
These lines always get a laugh. Always !
Here’s the thing. Self deprecating comments help bridge a connection between strangers because the guard is removed. While I'm self deprecating, I'm not self sabotaging. There’s a difference. Even though I’m making fun of myself, I am firmly rooted in my value as a human being and fully acknowledge my giftedness. I’m not looking for pity nor looking for external validation. For example, as it relates to my running, I am grateful for:
more than 40 years of pain free running—with no end in sight
maintaining a VO2 max that consistently ranks as "high"
that at age 62, I am no speedster but I am able to run faster than 70-80% of people half my age (according to AI)
Here’s the bottom line in strengthening connection with others, whether it’s those you lead or complete strangers—don’t take yourself too seriously and at the same time, don't shrink away from your greatness.
What’s your version of ‘on your left’? I’d love to hear how you use humour or humility to connect—drop a comment or send me a message.
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