If you are looking for the meaning of the word “priority,” you will find this definition:
“That which is considered more important than something else.”
Our priorities arise from our values and guide every decision that we take. But what happens when we collide with priorities that don't really reflect who we are?
This question is crucial in the sports world, especially when a person thinks that sports should be a priority, but it really is not.
Index
The Illusion of Training as a Priority
Imagine a person with a full life: work, social life, children, husband/wife, charitable activities, and dinners out.
He decides to sign up for the CrossFit® box, excited to get back in shape after hearing great things about the benefits of this activity.
Off to a great start, attending five days a week and seeing results in a month. Sounds like a surefire success!
Then something changes.
In the second month she starts skipping classes. When you ask her about it, she reassures you:
“I love the workouts and the community. I’ll be back to going five times a week starting tomorrow.”
But the next day he doesn't show up. Later, he tells you about an unexpected event with his family and promises to get back into the swing of things.
But the pattern repeats itself: less gym attendance, more excuses. Here's the problem: Her real priorities—work, family, friends—don't include working out, and there's nothing wrong with that.
However, feels that he should give more space to sport, creating an internal conflict.
He feels guilty for not being the person he would like to be, ending up avoiding the coach, and tell stories to justify his choices.
Changing Perspective: Authenticity
Now imagine a different approach.
During your initial consultation, ask her to talk honestly about her goals and priorities.
S/he admits that they don't particularly like working out, but they want to feel more energetic to take care of their children, be there for their husband/wife, and would like to face work challenges without burning out.
This honesty changes everything.
As a coach, you have the opportunity to help her see sport not as an obligation, but as a tool to improve her real priorities.
You show her how working out can give her more energy to play with her kids, be more productive at work, and feel better on a night out.
Exercise is no longer a rival, but an ally.
Benefits of Alignment
when priorities are aligned, everything changes.
If you skip a workout for an important event, there is no guilt, just the knowledge that you chose what matters in that moment.
And when he returns to the gym, he doesn’t need any excuses or elaborate explanations. You know he’s doing his best to balance his responsibilities.
Freud said:
“If we fully understood the reasons for other people’s behavior, everything would make sense.”
As a coach, your job is to understand these reasons and guide your clients towards a path of authenticity.
When you can match their fitness goals with what really matters in their lives, you’re offering them more than a workout program—you’re giving them a tool to live better.
A Long-Term Vision
The ultimate goal is create an authentic relationship with fitness, where training is not a pressure or an obligation, but an integral part of a balanced lifestyle.
This approach not only improves their physical fitness, but also their overall well-being, leading to long-lasting results and greater satisfaction in every area of life.
So, ask yourself: what are your priorities? And how can sports help them thrive?
And you, what are your priorities in the sports world? Let us know in the comments!