Back to business this morning at the "Spa" (Minnetonka LifeTime Athletic Club & Spa) after the summer break. Everyone calls it the Spa because it's full name is just too much of a mouthful, especially in the early AM.
It's amazing how consistent (or maybe habitual is a better word) people tend to be. I zipped into the parking lot at 5:30 AM with a full 15 minutes to spare and pulled into the exact same slot, next to the exact same contractor's pickup, that I always use. Walked up to the front desk and was greeted; "good-morning John. Are you teaching again?" by that same friendly smile. I surprise myself by actually producing my membership card. "Yes, Monday's are back on the schedule" is my response as I turn toward the steps down to the locker room.
"Wait" I thought. I stopped, turned and walked back to the reception desk.
"Forgive me... I've forgotten your name."
"Cathy".
"It's nice to see you again Cathy" I said before turning back toward the steps. I walked away feeling much better about myself for having the courage to confront something that I frequently struggle with... forgetting (or never asking) co-worker's and member's names.
Dressed for class and on my way up the stairs, when I had my second chance. A very familiar face, smile, "good morning John!" "I was excited to see that they added your class back for Fall."
It worked the first time. I'll try it again. "Good-morning, but forgive me... I've forgotten your name."
"Oh it's Betsy, but you have so many people's names to remember. I don't expect you to remember mine."
"Good-morning Betsy." "I'm looking forward to seeing your smile in class again." I said, seeing a mental image of her on her bike.
I already knew where she would be riding...
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Originally posted 2017-09-21 08:15:22.
John is a member on the AFS (Association of Fitness Studios) Advisory Council.
Holding certifications from; Schwinn, Heart Zones, Team ICG and Life Time Fitness, John's held regularly scheduled cycling classes between 1998 and 2015 when he moved to Florida.
When the weather permits, you'll find him riding and leading outdoor groups by himself or with his Tandem partner (wife) Amy.
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You made me laugh…..i always park in same spot at same time…i always leave at 5.58am to be at clas at 6.05. I am not too bad at names and one thing that works for me is asking my friends who are members the names of others…they often know.
Great post. I can relate to this? I Wonder John do you remember their name after you have asked them? I guess you probably will more so now, because by asking their name when you are really wanting to know their name should mean you are more likely to remember their name in the future.
Jason…I do that! Ask their name and then promptly forget it. Now I very purposely re-state it and connect it with something familiar (when I remember…just kidding!) and that helps a lot. It’s not fool-proof, as we are very busy heading to class, but it does help.
Imogen…I do that with my friends too. And John and I work together as well to find out members names.
Ah, the name game continues!