A 1st Place Trophy is NOT our Barometer of Success

Coaching (and parenting) these days can be very confusing. There is more pressure than ever for kids to perform and excel and specialize and win. These things, however, are not our barometers for success. Not for our kids and not for our kid-focused programs.

Winning the 1st place trophy does NOT define our success.

You know what does?!?

Kids returning next season and staff members who do not quit.

We will cover how to hold on to both groups in today's newsletter.

Remember, these concepts are universal and applicable to everyone.

Let's create a positive impact together!

How to create an environment where people want to work?

It is harder than ever to find staff, and then - how do you hold on to them? If we are thinking in terms of winning awards, I urge you to aim for the "Best Place to Work" award, recognizing that success in this realm oftentimes leads to larger financial success as well.

So, what can you focus on today to make your workplace better and have your employees more excited to come to work?

1. Seek and listen to feedback from your employees. This can come in the form of an anonymous survey or an open conversation, but people want to be heard, know that someone cares, and feel that they are working to make their workplace better.  

2. Facilitate Team Bonding outside of work. Oftentimes, people stay in jobs because of how much they love their co-workers. Help facilitate that bonding by planning some activities, meals, or moments of connection outside of their typical job duties.  

3. Express gratitude. A huge factor in people staying in jobs is that they feel valued. Tell your employees that you value them. Be specific with your words. You can share privately or publicly, but be sure you are showing thanks as often as you can.

A 1st place trophy means nothing if your athletes quit.

So, what makes a kid stay?

1. First and foremost is FUN. They are kids, after all. Practices should be fun and engaging. Try adding new games or activities to the end of a practice to inject fresh energy. Remember, the pressure on our children is constant and while we need to accomplish many things during practice time, if they stop having fun, they will quit.  

2. Friends. It has been 30 years since I quit gymnastics, and while I can't remember a single, specific detail about practices, I do still hold those friendships dear to my heart. I can only assume the same for most of you. Let your athletes chat and bond. It is not a waste of time. It is crucial time. It is OK to help them nurture those friendships. Talk to your athletes about what it means to be both a good teammate and a good friend. The more connected they feel to their teammates, the more eager they will be to attend practice.
   

3. Self-esteem. As coaches, we hold immense influence over a child's self-worth. Your athletes are not your frustration punching bag; they are children who are deserving of respect and kindness. Your job is to build them up, day after day, practice after practice. Show them that you care about them. Tell them how amazing they are. Smile when they arrive at practice. Your words and your body language matter. You, the coach, are a primary (possibly THE primary) reason a kid continues with a sport. We do not hold this honor lightly.