Cashing in on a Coach: Enable Personal Growth
Do you feel stuck? In your mind, you know what you would like to work on, but can’t get started? It’s not uncommon. In my experience that’s ok, the question it poses is, “ Are you prepared to make change and reach out for help?”
When I was at high school, by the time I entered year 11 (5th Form) I was the fastest for my age over 100 and 200 meters. This came as a surprise to me, as I wasn’t super competitive, or had been bothered with it in the past. Regardless I enjoyed the attention it lavished upon me. I was selected for the first XV and secured a position on the right wing. For this I also gained levels of attention and respect. I had got here purely based on my natural talent, but natural talent wasn’t going to be enough to take me further. During the winter it was rugby and the summer athletics. Training for rugby was mandatory, because if you didn’t show up, you didn’t play. Athletics was a bit more challenging; I knew I had to do something, but I didn’t know what. The pressure to train mounted as I started to get opportunities to compete in regional events. As it turned out there were other schools with faster people in. One of my school mates had a brother who was ahead of me. He was very fast, l was thankful I didn’t have to compete against him. He held the School record for the 100 and 200 meters and frequently competed at a national level. He became my aspiration. I found out when he would train and from a distance I would go and watch, as his coach trained him. Long story short, after that season, I got the opportunity to be trained by the same coach. Within the first coaching session it was soon brought to my attention that there was a lot that I didn’t know about sprinting. The time he invested in me and techniques that he taught me lifted my confidence and speed. Race day came. I was competing in the North Island Athletics Championships. My preferred race was the 200 meters, it was more advantageous for my sprint technique. I made the 200-meter final, the field was stacked with fast runners and despite coming in 4th, I posted my fastest time ever. Needless to say, having a coach made the difference. He gave me what I needed to compete at a higher level and reach a fuller potential.
“Cashing in on a coach is more than money”
From this story there are some key principles that I hope will inspire you to consider engaging with a coach.
Recognising the Need for Guidance: You all have natural abilities, where natural talent can only take you so far, acknowledging the need for guidance in personal growth is crucial. Even if you know what you want to work on, reaching out for help can be the catalyst for progress.
Learning from Others: You can’t beat learning from those who have achieved success in areas that you aspire to excel in. Observing and studying the techniques and strategies of successful individuals can provide valuable insights and inspiration.
Gaining Confidence and Skills: Working with a coach can help boost confidence and develop the skills needed to excel in your chosen field. Through personalized training and feedback, you can overcome obstacles and reach your full potential.
Achieving Results: The ultimate goal of coaching is to achieve tangible results. Whether it's posting your fastest time in a race or making significant strides in personal development, the support and guidance of a coach can make a meaningful difference in your journey towards success.
Remember, that if you are stuck and can’t find ways to break through, that a coach can help you.
My Learnings:
When I’m stuck, I need to look beyond myself for help.
I can’t always see better when I’m not shown what better is.
A coach can equip me with the tools that I need to be successful in my pursuits.
Through coaching, you can get clarity on your goals, overcome challenges, and develop the skills and confidence needed to reach your full potential.
My Questions for You:
What are your long-term goals, and what steps are you currently taking to achieve them?
What obstacles or challenges are currently hindering your progress, and how can you overcome them?
Who can support you on your journey, and how can you leverage their help?
"If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." - Isaac Newton
Do you need a nudge? Reach out, and let's take time to discover how we can progress together. Remember daily to, 'Find value in your influence.' Your voice matters, and I'm excited to hear from you!"
Written By: Paul Fawcett.
