SEPTEMBER 11, 2020
We are closing in on five years of weekly remarks both as the CRO (Chief Reminder Officer) and Elevator Guy. Now that I am officially in retirement, my heart yearns to add more value to all of you (and others) so I wanted to talk more about coaching. In college, I got my coaching endorsement in hopes of learning more about leadership and making a difference in the lives of young people. I did have a few teaching contracts available upon graduation which would have included coaching basketball and football. But, I chose another field to play on, so I got into business. Now I am returning to my roots in hopes of pulling together and sharing the coaching principles that have worked for many of you in your life.
Even in business, I was always interested in coaches and how they got their people to participate at a high level. Tom Osborne, John Wooden, and Lou Holtz come to mind for me. These men were not only great coaches but men of high character. They passed down their wisdom in building great teams but more importantly, great men. For any of you that played for a “High Level” coach, it was more than likely one of the peak experiences of your life. A few of the things each one of these coaches had in common was (and in this order); their faith in God, their families, and the leadership qualities to build great organizations. Try reading a few of their books as you just might learn something new that you have within yourself.
As coaches, their job was to lead. Leading others toward their potential while supporting them to become leaders in their own lives. That meant they needed to set a great example of what it took to lead. Each one of them started with an inspiring vision as to where they wanted to go. Their job was to clarify this vision in challenging their players to go BIG and inspiring hope that they can make it a reality. Each one set a strong foundation for a successful relationship with each of their players. They were great at connecting with the people they were supporting. They helped great athletes achieve results that may just be out of reach of others. Doing this relies on respect, which we all can give through our deep, undivided presence in every interaction that life throws at us.
I read somewhere that one great secret weapon of a leader is LOVE. That means you have to be intentional (thanks John Maxwell) and be present. It is our responsibility to define the characteristics of coaching relationships, and to help people co-create spaces that support transformation. Helping others see the vision and then challenging them to meet and exceed that vision.
Enough about great coaches. YOU have the responsibility to be a great coach with your team, your family, and even more importantly, YOURSELF. You already should be paying enough attention to yourself since many of us thinks the world revolves around us. You are VERY important to your family and God. But he wants you to find wisdom, work on self-mastery of bad habits, find courage to face your obstacles, and LOVE everyone you coach.
Look for more and exciting things to come in living a “Good Life Coaching” experience. Lots of WINS to celebrate for each one of us as we navigate life. Go be a “Great Coach.” You can do it.
Elevator Guy