Serve, Coach, Lead Newsletter #3: Put In The Work!

As coaches and leaders, we expect the people within our organizations to be self-motivated to study and train on their own. In sports, team practice is for learning concepts, and providing game-like repetitions in order to prepare for live opponents. We all understand that the only way for an athlete to vastly improve their individual skills is to put in work outside of practice. It is difficult for a player to see tremendous strides in their ability simply by showing up to practice and doing the bare minimum required to be a part of the team.

This is undoubtedly true. And as coaches, we know that if every player took the time to sit down and evaluate exactly what they needed to work on, created a plan of attack, and worked each day to become the best version of themselves, our programs would be more successful.

Now the question is this:

How many coaches are constantly evaluating themselves, determining where they need to improve in order to be better leaders of their programs?

What are you doing on a daily basis to become a more competent leader?

Small, consistent efforts are much more beneficial than large, random sessions.

What we do every day is more important than what we do once in a while.

As I thought about the consistency (or lack thereof) of my behaviors, I decided to choose a few actions that I would like do more frequently. Below are three non-negotiable items that I will accomplish every day. At the minimum, they only take thirty minutes to complete. However, the long-term benefits of committing to consistency will pay dividends in my personal life, as well as in my self-discipline.

1. I will complete a workout before 9:00 AM every day. 50 pushups/squats minimum (takes 5-10 minutes). If I have access to a weight room (either at the school or on the road), I will complete a longer weight lifting workout (45 minutes to an hour).

2. I will read my Bible for at least 15 minutes every day. This week I will work to find the best time to get into a routine. In the past it has been best to read between morning stretch and breakfast.

3. I will complete structured breathing, mental practice/visualization every day. Everything happens twice. First in your mind, then in reality. Visualizing success, and learning to control reactions in any situation is a key to confidence and self-control.

These are simply examples of ways that we can dedicate to becoming the best version of ourselves. I encourage you to find your "non-negotiables" that will help you achieve your goals. (Check out last week's newsletter about how reading is one of our most powerful tools for becoming who we want to be)

Finally, remember that as leaders we are charged with the responsibility of being role models for those entrusted to us. Embody the work habits that you want your players to have. Show your students what it looks like to be a lifelong learner. Teach your children the importance of building a relationship with God.

Actions speak louder than words. I realize this daily as Megan and I continue to grow in our marriage. (Extra credit: "Reactions Speak Louder Than Words" with Andy Stanley video)

Understand that what you do often has a much greater impact on the behaviors of those you lead than what you say.

I am often reminded of this cartoon that effectively summarizes this idea:

"How do you get your child to read books?"

Leadership is a responsibility. Do not take it lightly. However, have grace and let yourself make mistakes. No one is perfect one hundred percent of the time. If you are making a conscious effort to be a positive role model in the lives of others, you are moving in the right direction.

I hope this newsletter will encourage you to explore daily habits that will help you grow personally, and as a leader. If you already have behaviors that you practice, or find some that you like, please share them with me! I would love to hear how you implement your daily routines in your lives.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this week's newsletter. As mentioned before, I would love for this to be an interactive experience for each of us. Please share any comments, questions, or feedback that you may have. You can reply directly, or simply email me at harrison.stevens3@gmail.com. Also, if you know of anyone that would benefit from these emails, please send them this link to sign up.

Every Serve, Coach, Lead newsletter is available on my website, which can be found here. Feel free to share the website on social media to help reach more leaders!

If you would like to reread last week's newsletter, you can find it here.

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to connecting with you all next week.

God Bless!