Can Coaching Help Me?

I often get asked why do I need a coach.  I have in the past stated some examples of high performing people who have coaches.  Most notable in our time is Tiger Woods – perhaps the best golfer of all time.  Someone with the talents of Mr. Woods, one would think that he does NOT have a coach.  However, he indeed has numerous coaches – fitness, swing, etc.  Why is this so, he has so many talents that he can teach everyone a thing or two about playing the game of golf.  Mr. Woods also realizes the importance of having an objective view of his game and getting feedback to keep improving.  It is no wonder year after year other golfers keep scratching their heads wondering how he continues to get better every time he steps on the golf course.

The above example truly underscores the reason why people who want to attain lofty goals in life can benefit from a coach.  There are other examples of great athletes getting the value of coaching.  Wayne Gretzky is like Mr. Woods, however, Gretzky became great playing hockey.  Hockey is far different than golf, but requires the same discipline.  I understand this because as a hobby I play hockey.  I have had the opportunity to watch Mr. Gretzky practice when he was with the Los Angeles Kings.  One thing that truly amazed me was that Gretzky was always listening intently to the coach and assistant coaches.  The coach at the time was Barry Melrose.  Mr. Melrose did play briefly in the NHL, but never coming close to the achievements of Mr. Gretzky.  Mr. Melrose’s genius was in his ability to get everyone working on the same page and to see where improvements can be made in each player.  Mr. Gretzky saw this and always followed his coaches.  Now Gretzky has been compared with Babe Ruth in terms of greatness, however, if you ask him how he attained such heights he will probably give credit to his teammates and coaches.

OK, so we are not Gretzky or Woods, but we do have gifts and talents that we can share with the world and live with abundance.  The secret is to find these hidden gems that lie within each of us.  Face it, it is hard to see you and give yourself constructive criticism.  It is human nature; so do not beat yourself up over it.  Get smart and find yourself a good coach to consult with.  It is recommended that you speak to many prospective coaches to give yourself the right feel and fit.  It is your life and worth the investment!  Once you secure a coach, begin to think BIG.  Let your aspirations rise to the highest level and let the coach push you higher.  It will the best growing experience you can have.

Mike Magdaleno is consultant, speaker, and life coach.  He has over 25 years of experience working with people and helping to resolve their problems.  He is also the founder of a podcast called Élan Life Coaching.
Phone: 310-740-0487
Skype: mike.magdaleno
E-mail: elanlifecoach@gmail.com