From Ironman Training and Coworking: Harnessing the Power of Laser-Like Focus

Guest post by Kane Willmott of IQOffices.com

One late evening in May of 2021, I left my desk, where I had been sitting for the better part of 13 hours. A relentless schedule of Zoom calls had me sitting for hours on end during a lockdown which had lasted over well over a year. Running a coworking business through a global pandemic was challenging me mentally, but the routine was taking its toll on me physically.

So, I did the logical thing, I signed up for a half Ironman with the goal of completing a full Ironman. Prior to signing up, I had never done any endurance racing. I also couldn’t swim more than 25 meters without getting completely gassed.

Embarking on the journey of training for an Ironman event was like willingly subjecting myself to a mix of physical torture and questionable life choices. But it turned out to be an unexpectedly enlightening experience! Surprisingly, the lessons I learned while desperately trying not to drown, fall off my bike, or collapse during a marathon can be applied to the world of coworking. In this blog post, I’ll share how my Ironman training taught me the value of focused training without distraction and how coworking spaces offer a similar sanctuary for businesses to excel without distractions associated with procuring and running a traditional office space.

1. The Power of Focused Training:

An Ironman race is a gruelling and endurance event that consists of a 2.4-mile (3.86 km) swim, followed by a 112-mile (180.25 km) bike ride, and ending with a full marathon, a 26.2-mile (42.20 km). Picture this: me, a weekend warrior at best, attempting to conquer three disciplines that seem designed to humiliate the unprepared. Yet, during all that madness, I discovered the incredible benefits of eliminating distractions. By setting goals, establishing routines, and avoiding the temptation of Netflix binges, I managed to focus solely on my training. Miraculously, this led to some actual progress and spared me from utter embarrassment on race day.

2. Flexibility and Adaptability:

Training for an Ironman is a lesson in accepting the unpredictable. Weather gods love to toy with your emotions, injuries strike when you least expect them, and life has a way of throwing curveballs just when you thought you had it all figured out. But the key to survival lies in flexibility and adaptability. Embracing change, adjusting training plans, and rolling with the punches are essential skills to reach that elusive finish line.

3. Building a Supportive Community:

Training for an Ironman can be a lonely endeavour. Thankfully, I stumbled upon a group of equally masochistic individuals who shared my enthusiasm for pushing our bodies to the brink of collapse. We formed a bond, swapping stories of blisters, chafing, and consuming questionable amounts of energy gels. These comrades provided the support and encouragement needed to keep going, even when our sanity was in question.

Translating the Lessons to Coworking:

1.The Core Advantage: How Focus Drives Business Success:

Let’s face it, the business world is like a never-ending circus filled with many illusions and unexpected distractions. But fear not! Coworking spaces act as the designated “no-nonsense zones” where you can escape the distractions of workspace management and focus on what really matters. Unlike a traditional office lease, offices within a coworking space are designed to boost productivity and minimize disruptions allowing companies to stay laser-focused on their core objectives.

2. The Collaborative Environment of Coworking:

Coworking spaces might not have sweaty athletes in spandex, but they do offer an alternative kind of camaraderie. Surrounded by professionals from various backgrounds and industries, you can tap into a wealth of knowledge, inspiration, and potential partnerships. It’s like having your own tribe of business warriors ready to brainstorm ideas, share experiences, and possibly even rescue you from the jaws of spreadsheet-induced insanity. For coworking operators, their core business involves attracting people to the office. A vibrant community of high achievers creates a vibe that is very difficult to replicate in a half-empty “traditional office” at the end of a hallway.

3. Flexibility and Adaptability:

Training for an Ironman is a lesson in accepting the unpredictable. Weather gods love to toy with your emotions, injuries strike when you least expect them, and life has a way of throwing curveballs just when you thought you had it all figured out. But the key to survival lies in flexibility and adaptability. Embracing change, adjusting training plans, and rolling with the punches are essential skills to reach that elusive finish line.

Coworking spaces have mastered the art of adaptability too. With flexible terms, customizable workspaces, and an array of amenities, businesses can navigate the ever-changing landscape with ease. Whether you need to expand, downsize, or accommodate remote teams, coworking spaces have got you covered.

Conclusion:

On a hot and humid day in Texas in April of 2022, I heard those words that I had been chasing for a year. Mike Reilley stepped to the loudspeaker and said, “Kane Willmott, you are an Ironman”. It was an emotional experience that I will never forget. Whether you want to complete an Ironman or take your business to the next level, I have found that the key to success is staying focused, surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals and eliminating distractions.

At iQ Offices, we are relentlessly focused on helping our member companies attract and retain the best talent in an inspired and distraction-free environment.