I took my partner, Karl, to Kauai for his 50th birthday. We celebrated by standing at the top of a 800-foot waterfall. Fabulous!! Yet hiking to that spot, and on a slippery trail on the Na Pali coast, I had a chance to observe some of my quirky high-achiever behavior.

While hiking, when I am in front I tend to hike at a fast clip, maybe too fast since I’m pretty used up on the return trip.  I also confidently jump rocks and manage around mud traps. However, I rarely ask for help which means I fall on my butt a few times (I do graciously accept help getting up, but I am probably selective about who I’ll let help me).

On the other hand, I found that when I am not up front, my pace slows down, I am more aware of my body aches,  and I even seem less sure of my footing.

Truly, this is a metaphor for my group behavior. Though I think I inspire well, when I  am a leader, I tend to push hard. And I have always had difficulty falling into a “subordinate” role…probably because I define it that way instead of seeing myself as a part of a team.

Sigh.

I actually had fun watching my silly behavior. At least I can observe it…changing it is another thing.

Use your “observer mind” to watch yourself this weekend. What silly and amazing things do you do by habit? How does your “strong woman” play herself out in public?

Let’s share the funny and wonderful things we do.