There are many different cyclists with whom I ride bikes (when the weather is warm and nice.) Among cyclists online, there is generally a healthy community of positive encouragement and it’s all quite nice.
I have noticed that particularly talented riders often get praised for the outcome of their rides and not the ride itself.
The example would be, “Wow, John, you averaged 20mph on that ride! Incredible!” Or something like, “You rode over 100 miles today! That’s a huge accomplishment!”
These are all nice things and things that I very rarely do. I can’t help but wonder if it takes some of the joy away from the process of just riding your bike when you feel labeled as “the guy who always goes 20mph” or any other label that is thrust upon you.
I’ve learned that when I pay compliments to my children, friends, or colleagues in work, I try to praise the thought that goes into something and the process that made the result possible.
I think praising the creative for their creativity or thoughtfulness is more valuable to them than praising work they did that happens to be “creative.”
For the cyclists, I try to praise their toughness, tenacity, willingness to train and get in shape, and determination to ride long or fast. You can be tough and only ride 35 miles, or willing to train hard and still not break 17mph.
You may also be ultra-talented and creative and not yet have the most incredible work. Not yet, at least.