A new year means fresh perspectives, new challenges, and renewed ambitions, or at least that’s what most of us tell ourselves. Then we return from the holidays and often enough it’s the “same ole’ same ole’” and most of us probably need a little support or nudge to continue. I’ve been very lucky; I have a fantastic tribe that I rely on when the “doldrums” hit. They consist of friends, colleagues, professional resources (formal and informal) and are my trusted advisors. The relationships I rely on; I hope, in turn, they rely on me. These are the folks that see what we don’t; whether it’s our own blind spots or the bigger picture, we may miss because we are buried in the details. Whether official or unofficial, these are our “coaches”, and we can’t live our best lives without them!
We all need coaches. Recognizing when help is needed, that is a sign of personal strength. I know of many successful people who have had coaches, be they personal or professional. Remember, Michael Jordon had Phil Jackson when he was with the Bulls and Hank Haney coached Tiger Woods for 6+ years. But it’s not only athletes that need coaches; I know many executives that also have coaches, personal and professional ones.
I believe that a good coach sees in you what you may not see in yourself. They help guide you, because in the end it’s not about what you do today, it is about what you can accomplish down the road. It’s about recognizing and developing your potential.
Sanjay and I both use coaches, formally and informally, together and individually. We run things by them, get their perspective and then discuss it amongst ourselves to see how we best implement the ideas we have so that we all prosper. The way we find folks to help is by determining what we want to accomplish, and then find folks that have done that and want to help. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the experts in your circle; there’s a lot to gain!
“A coach is someone who tells you what you don’t want to hear, who has you see what you don’t want to see, so you can be who you have always known you could be.” – Tom Landry
Who do you or will you run your thoughts by? Who to you look to for counsel?
Have a great weekend.
-Vijay