Everyone Needs a Good Coach

Most people know that Crossfit has been a steady part of my weekly regiment for several years now (injury periods not included!).  For one reason, the principles behind the community resonate with so many other aspects of my life (along with millions across the world).  One of the most successful coaches in the sport is Ben Bergeron.  He will be releasing his first book Chasing Excellence this week.  

I love all aspects of coaching, not just because of sport, but life in general.  If we're all honest, we all need a good coach for things professional and often personal.  Sometimes we allow de facto coaches, i.e., a friend.  Sometimes this friend is a great coach and they're helpful and honest.  A lot of times friends do not want to hurt feelings and in result are not a reliable coach.  Because honest conversations only come if we're willing to accept the truth: we're never as good as we think we are; we're right some of the time but not all of the time; we all have fragile egos that do not like criticism. 

A successful coaching relationship is reciprocal and built on an earned trust. Neither the deliverer or the receiver knows everything, and therefore it is a two-way conversation. The conversation is the learning--only if it goes both ways.

Bergeron uses the Car Rider Test to hire coaches: Could you take a 4-hour car ride with this person?  You driving and them sitting shotgun, and have a great time.  If you won't enjoy 4 hours, you're not going to enjoy working together for years.  

Here's to working on being coachable and a good car ride!