Happy FriYAY Team!
One of the most powerful roles we have as parents/someone younger people look up to, isn’t necessarily something we are conscious of — it’s being a role model.
Young people are all around us, and they are watching us. They watch how we train, how we fuel our bodies, how we deal with a tough session, how we respond when things don’t go to plan, and how we celebrate the little wins. They see the good days, but they also see the days when we are tired, frustrated or wondering why on earth we signed up for another race! 😂 And whether we realise it or not, they are learning from all of it.
We often talk about the importance of encouraging kids to be active, healthy and confident, but sometimes the most powerful encouragement is simply showing them what that looks like. When they see us setting goals, committing to something, getting out the door when we don't feel like it, looking after our bodies and continuing when things get difficult, we are teaching them lessons that go far beyond sport.
Being a role model doesn't mean being perfect. Our kids don't need to see us winning every race or smashing every training session. They need to see us have a go. They need to see us make mistakes, learn from them, get back up and keep moving forward. They need to see that looking after ourselves, challenging ourselves and pursuing something we love is a positive part of life. They see us enjoying the journey and the joy the rewards bring.
And sometimes, without us even realising it, those little eyes watching from the sidelines become the next generation of runners, swimmers, cyclists, gym-goers and maybe even triathletes!
So keep turning up. Keep chasing those goals. Keep showing your kids and young people around us what it looks like to believe in yourself and work towards something that matters.
Because one day you might look over your shoulder and realise they aren't just watching anymore… they're following.
And perhaps that's one of the greatest reasons of all of us to keep setting the example. ❤️
Live Boldly,
Coach Alli |