Yogi.

The Latin derivative for “yoga” (not really).

Until recently, a yogi was a person whose exercise of choice was one that I completely misunderstood and was more likely to eschew than attempt. You see, if I were to describe myself in one word, “flexible” would not be that word.

One teacher, though, Earl, has really struck a chord with me in helping to see how getting through the physical demands of this ancient practice are applicable to everyday work.

Gently Push the Envelope
One of the key takeaways for me is Earl’s insistence on small, measurable progress; the thought that raising your toe one half inch higher…one inch higher…two inches higher, will make you progress that much further. It’s a small distance, a measurable hurt and a needed reminder.

I find myself wanting to constantly make large strides in life, be it in my professional or personal goals. The truth is, however, I have to work for it and make the small efforts each day to really get where I want to go. I have to remind myself that the little bit of pain now will pay much larger dividends in the future.

Smile
I know, this sounds like a super yoga-hippy thing to say, doesn’t it? There were times during class, though, that the tension and effort of everyone in the room was palpable. Muscles are tensed, eyes are focused and no one wants to fall. But with a witty comment from Earl or a reminder to “raise the corners of our mouth” you could sense a small weight being lifted off your shoulder.

Real life projects can have the same effect on me. Things get hectic and I feel like I’m trying to run in five directions. I get so focused, I forget to really digest what I’m doing to keep it in perspective. When I was an intern for Kohl’s Department Stores, it was commonly said by employees that they loved what they did and they worked hard, but at the end of the day “they knew that they sold underwear”. Seeing as I’m not the President, I have to remember not to take myself so seriously sometimes.

Lead by Example
I am a 100% novice when it comes to yoga, so half the words that get used in a class are absolutely foreign to me (Chatarunga. Ukatasana. YouseewhereI’mcomingfrom?). Fortunately, Earl takes time show the class exactly what they should be doing, as well as common pit-falls to avoid.

I would never expect a leader hold my hand in every situation – that would be inefficient on all accounts – but when I’m stepping into something new and trying to make myself better, it helps get a little advice from someone that’s been there before.

The truth is, every situation in life can be an opportunity to lead, and applying one of these three principles to the situation you’re in a simple way to start

So how about you…do you have activities that help you stay grounded and keep the rest of the world in perspective? I’d love to hear about them!