“Physician, heal thyself”

This ancient proverb advises people to fix their own flaws or problems before trying to help others. I’ve taken the past month trying to do this, mainly out of necessity as I fractured my wrist so have been wearing a cumbersome cast, very debilitating. As a coach, my work is in the headspace rather than the body, however, our heads are affected when we damage our bodies, therefore I’ve had to address this so that I can give my best as a coach.

As a gen X woman, my attitude to my own life is generally to get on with it, “you can do it”, be independent and keep going, “you’re strong”. Mostly, this stands me in good stead, however, when you lose the use of a limb, even for just a month or two, you are faced with your own vulnerability. Apparently, I’m not invincible and have to accept help – bra straps with one hand, nope! It is one of life’s reminders of how lucky I am in the normal run of things.

Physical weakness is unusual for me and not being able to get out into the countryside and ride my bike has had an enormous impact. It’s required changes – lots of long walks, cycling on the turbo trainer (in the garden), meeting up with fellow members for coffee and attending club events to keep up the exercise and social benefits of belonging to a great cycling club.

I hadn’t realised the extent of the emotional support I would need – this is where the calls from my sons, cuddles from my “grandpup” and dinner(s) cooked by my partner have come into their own. Thank you, all.

Setbacks should be no more uncomfortable for a coach than for anyone and I’ve had to get over the feeling that I should be ok with all of this…when I’m not. I’ve had to take a step back and review why I feel this way, leaning on my supervisor and, I firmly believe, coming through stronger (let’s hope my wrist is, too). We all need support from time to time – embrace it and you’ll have the strength and grace to return it when your nearest and dearest need it.

In my philosophical moments, I see “Physician, heal thyself” positively, that is, to understand and address one’s own inner wounds in order to be able to authentically help others.

Solace from my "grandpup", Alice, and recreating favourite rides on the bike trainer have helped get me through this difficult period.