9 Foundation Blocks for Being Grounded

Being grounded is the foundation on which all other riding experiences evolve. Acquiring the technical, physical and mental skills not only set the stage for safe and enjoyable riding, they bode well for many years of incredible experiences.

While the motorcycle paints a vivid example, it also illustrates the importance of being grounded when it comes to other areas of your life.

Acquiring skills for whatever you’re about to do not only develops proficiency, it makes the whole experience more pleasurable.

9 foundation blocks for being grounded

1. Technical skills. Fundamental skills on a bike are balance, braking, shifting gears and cornering. As well-meaning as friends and family are, the best way to learn is from a qualified instructor. When it comes to your careers, staying current is important. You can shorten the learning curve considerably by taking professional development courses from subject matter experts.

2. Rules of the Road. To stay safe, you need to know the rules for the environment you’re operating in. Whether you agree with them or not is immaterial. When you put yourself in a situation, you accept personal accountability for being there.

3. Self-care. Operating a motorcycle safely requires that you be physically fit, alert, have good motor skills. quick decision making capabilities and sharp cognitive skills. Invariably, looking after body, mind and spirit build a healthy foundation upon which you can build your life on, no matter what aspect you refer to.

4. Appropriate gear. Safety gear is there to protect you, although you never expect it to be called into action. In life, self-worth, confidence and self-awareness protect you from negative thinking, opinions of others and destructive emotions.

5. Planning. Whether you decide to go around the block or around the world, any journey requires research and preparation. This doesn’t mean every move has to be detailed, but it’s a good idea to know what to expect and plan accordingly.

6. Relationship building. The relationship between a motorcycle and its operator requires a healthy respect for each other, excellent communication skills and responding constructively to what the road delivers. The same thing applies to life. Acting from love rather than fear is always more productive.

7. Staying current. If not used, skills get rusty, whether you’re on a motorcycle or in a job. Taking a refresher restores your skills, confidence and gets you back up to speed more quickly.

8. Understanding the hazards. On the road, you know you have to watch for traffic, road conditions, animals, kids, weather and a variety of changing circumstances. Sustainability and profitability in your careers require you to understand trends, market conditions and technology – and trust in your own intuition. Only then can you be effective.

9. Growth. You didn’t learn to ride a motorcycle just to go around and around your block. But riding further required you to gain confidence and push through your comfort zone. Similarly your human spirit seeks growth, even though at times it may be uncomfortable and you have to push yourself. Once you do, you discover more about your strengths – and interests. Walking through doors which open leads to even greater fulfillment.

Generally, when tires lose contact with the road surface, things are about to unravel.  Whether you’re learning to ride a motorcycle, changing jobs or pursuing a new interest, getting the appropriate grounding keeps you safe, develops confidence and creates joy.
photo credit: szeke via photopin cc