Developing an Ability as a Teacher

Good post Keith...An excellent subject that more people need to learn about...

I think a good coach needs to have 'been thru the fires.' A good coach needs to have 'done it,' not just learned it. A good coach needs to have empathy and respect for all people with the desire and drive to improve. No matter how new a person may be to success, a coach needs to give 110% of his abilities and experience to each and every person seeking his help.

I think a good coach needs to have been there, done that, and must be comfortable with their own life.

I think a good coach serves as a 'sounding board' for his students. He must be able to 'hear' and 'understand' what his student wants to accomplish, not what he wants the student to do. There is no 'system' to coaching because every single one of us is different. Every coaching relationship is 'customized.' A good coach digs deep, professionally and personally, and uncovers underlying hopes and dreams.

A good coach treats his student the same as if it was his own Dad, or Mom, or child, or best friend, he was trying to help and guide. That's the intensity to help that must be present.

I could go on and on, but you probably get the idea...

I'm nearly 60, and I have had many 'coaches' in my life, some free and many paid. I still have free and paid coaches to this day and I would not be as happy and successful as I am without my coaches. Most people do not invest in coaching. They simply don't know how huge the benefits are.

But if you speak with any highly successful person, they will tell you much of their success is due to their 'coaches.' And they still continue to work with these coaches.

Call them coaches, mentors, or confidants, or whatever, my advice to anyone who wants to move up in this complex, fast-paced, competitive life we all lead...find yourself coaches.

Thanks again Keith for opening up this valuable thread...Coach Doug