As coaches a huge part of our job involves management.
Management of our athletes first, then management of our assistant coaches,
support staff, facilities etc. To be a good coach it is absolutely necessary to
be an effective manager. That being said the biggest management task we face is
management of ourselves. Without effective self-management I contend it is
virtually impossible to manage others effectively. In preparing a team or
individuals the goal is always to be best for the big game, or for the
championship meet or match. We get our athletes ready to go, but what about
ourselves? We need be on our A game, completely energized, when often it is
the opposite because we have failed to mange ourselves properly. We have failed
to manage our energy; instead of being up and focused we are drained,
physically, psychologically and emotionally. Personally I think this is one of
the biggest challenges we face as coaches – how to effectively manage
and distribute our energy to be at our best when it counts the most. It demands
taking control of our lives and achieving a balance so that we have a life
outside of coaching. There are many ways to achieve this based on your
personality and life situation, but just being aware is a big first step. Take
a step back and assess how you approach what you do. What is your routine? Are you exercising and eating healthy? Do you have quality time for your family or significant others? Reflect on how you can
manage yourself more effectively. Devise a plan and implement that plan so you
are at your best when your athletes need you to be.