Are You Coachable? Neil Peart is.

Whenever I start a new coaching relationship I ask the person flat out -- “Are you coachable?” I’ve learned from experience that a lot of us say we want challenge, reflection, feedback and guidance. We say we’re ready to “dive in”, but a lot of the time reality proves otherwise. There’s just so much inertia keeping us in place.

I’m sympathetic. I’m human. I resist change like most people, and I choose my words carefully when it comes to transformation. “Careful what you wish for.”

But I just read a really cool piece on Neil Peart’s website. Some of you may recognize him as the drummer of Rush and depending on which “best living rock drummer” poll you consult, you’ll most likely find him at the top. Think about that -- Best. Living. Rock Drummer.

ASIDE: I no longer hide the fact that I’m a huge Rush fan.

So back to being coachable. In his mid-fifties, Neil Peart -- the world’s greatest living rock drummer -- still gets drum lessons. How freaking cool is that? Are you the best at anything in the world? If you were, would you still take lessons for it?

I’m inspired by Neil’s humility, drive to learn, desire to expand and grow at a craft he’s been doing most of his life. Especially when he could totally glide.

Being coachable is really about being humble. It’s being open to feedback without becoming defensive, and ultimately it’s about staying curious. Imagine getting older AND remaining curious about what is possible for you. That, to me, sounds like the spirit of youth.

Here’s to staying open and curious. Thanks again for the inspiration, Neil.

* Email
	* = Required Field