Finding Leadership in Everything – Including Fitness

By Kassi Swalboski, Leadership Gilroy Board of Directors

Kassi Swalboski is the owner of Crossfit Gilroy and currently serves on the board of directors for Leadership Gilroy. She shares some valuable lessons from the gym that have helped her become a better leader:

• Be prepared for the unknown - Being a part of CrossFit you don't know what the workout is going to be until you get there that day. The anticipation often leads to feeling sick in the stomach or possibly wanting to not even go due to the "unknown". Leaders will quickly be able to adjust to the needs of those they are leading as well as keep calm under the pressures of a mishap because they are mentally prepared for the unknown.

• Create a community - Every good leader has a following of people because they are clearly trusted and respected. To be respected you have to give respect and time to each individual on your team. The more time you spend one on one with people and making them feel connected to you, the more they will want to follow you.

• Have guts - Sometimes in a workout you need to have the guts to "no rep" your friend after a faulty lift Telling people that their efforts, although great, aren't going to count is a VERY hard task. Also, telling people what you need from them and being direct is necessary for building the team you're looking for. They will know your expectations and the "no-repping" will in turn be less and less.

  Kassi uses these tips to be a strong leader at the gym and in everyday life. We hope you are inspired to prepare for the unknown, create a strong community and have guts as you interact with friends, co-workers and in the organizations you’re involved with.