I’ve made an exciting (and slightly terrifying) commitment: I’m doing my very first triathlon this spring!
It’s a big leap for me—especially considering I don’t really bike, run, or swim much. But here’s the thing I’ve become fascinated by recently: when I dive into something new, I somehow always end up surrounded by the best.
I’m starting to think this isn’t luck. I believe it’s something we can all cultivate.
Let me explain. When I started taking hip-hop and house dancing classes almost two years ago, I had no idea my teacher was one of the best house dancers in Canada! (And he’s a fantastic teacher too, pushing me beyond what many other classes offer.)
Despite never having lifted weights or worked out in a gym, I ended up with Olympian and celebrity Marion Jones as my first trainer. (Let me tell you, you don’t make excuses when she wants to work out at 5 a.m.)
And now, for my very first triathlon, I somehow find myself learning from one of the top triathlon coaches in the world!
I never specifically set out to find the best in these areas, but there’s a lesson here about leadership:
Excellence Attracts Excellence
When you commit to showing up fully, putting in the effort, trusting the process, and staying open to learning, amazing opportunities and people find their way to you.
As leaders, the same principle applies. If we surround ourselves with excellence—mentors, teammates, or even ideas—it raises our own game. Excellence is contagious, and the ripple effects can transform not just us, but everyone we work with.
Here are a few tips:
Seek Out Mentors and Coaches: You can’t elevate your own excellence without them!
Trust the Process and Be Coachable: Be eager to learn and grow, and take feedback to heart.
Stay Open to Unexpected Opportunities: Say yes when something intriguing comes your way—this has been the number-one way I’ve ended up with the best.
I’m excited for this next phase (and maybe a little scared). But I know that when I step out of my comfort zone and surround myself with excellence, growth is inevitable.
How do you surround yourself with excellence? I’d love to hear about it—reply and let me know!
