Are you ready for a story about high drama on the bike trail?

Imagine that you actually take some time for yourself.  A bike ride sounds like a great idea.  You’re ready to feel free with the wind in your hair.  It’s time to reflect on your day.  Or you just want to have a powerful workout.

That was my intention. And I looked forward to some alone time. I pumped up the tires. Additionally, the water bottle was filled.  And put on my helmet and sunscreen. The day was mine.  I was ready to enjoy a beautiful Michigan summer day.  

Until… the high drama happened on the bike trail.  Four bike riders were heading towards me.  They took up the entire bike path.  I couldn’t go around them. This occurs all the time on bike trails.  Usually, when a group of bike riders sees someone coming towards them, they go in a single file.

Not these bike riders! They didn’t let me pass.  They started laughing at me saying, “What are you going to do little lady?”  Yes, they bullied this conflict resolution coach.

You’ll hear what I did soon.  I promise!

I’ve told this high drama story at least 10 times. In fact, I asked friends and relatives what they would do. The answers were diverse.

What Would You do if You were in my Shoes? And Experienced This High Drama?

• Get off your bike?
• Go into the trees and let them pass?
• Say something in a humorous way?
• Start yelling about their rudeness?

Please respond and let us know in the comment section. 
I’ll send a copy of my book, Take the Ride of Your Life! to the first two people who comment.  

Joyce, Tell us Already.  What Did You do During this High Drama on the Bike Trail?

I reacted without thinking.  This is something that is a natural reaction during stress.  

The following words fell out of my mouth:  “You’ve got to be kidding me! You want me to get off my bike instead of the four of you riding in a single file?” These words fueled the fire. They continued laughing and started saying sarcastic comments about my attitude.

Lessons Learned From This High Drama on the Bike Trail

It took me a long time to calm down.  My heart was pumping very fast.  I felt angry and scared.  Bike riders are usually very courteous.  I was totally caught off guard this time. 

Life is about learning from mistakes.  This lesson is an easy one to recognize.  It’s NOT easy to execute. As I reflect on this high drama, silence would have been the best response.  They were jerks.  What good did it do for me to speak to them? Nothing!

Silence is a powerful tool.  It helps us stay in control. And not say something we wished we didn’t say.  It’s an act of strength.  I’m not talking about not feeling heard. This is another issue that I address in everything that I do.

Let’s Stay Connected

Please share your thoughts about this week’s post. What parts resonate with you?  How would you have responded to this high drama?
You can share your thoughts in the comment section or send me a private email HERE.

Remember, the first 2 people who comment on this blog post will receive a copy of Take the Ride of Your Life!

Until Next Time,

Joyce Weiss, M.A., CSP, CVP
Conflict Resolution and Communication Coach
Queen of Conflict Resolution

P.S. Please share this post on your social media.  As a result, other growth-minded people can reduce their high drama and inner stress.

P.P.S. I’m the Human Resource Professional’s Partner. I coach employees and managers so that they feel heard and respected.
This means they are confident to use their voice – without losing their cool.