Step Two: Learning From Your Experiences
In this module, you'll explore how your past experiences with coaches, both positive and negative, have shaped your own Coaching Philosophy. You'll reflect on these examples to help define the authentic approach you bring to your coaching role.
Being an effective coach is about being true to yourself. Authenticity is key – bringing your best qualities to your role is what will set you apart. While your unique style is important, it’s common to draw lessons from the coaches you’ve had in the past, learning from their successes and mistakes. These experiences, both positive and negative, often shape your Coaching Philosophy.
Chances are, a large part of how you coach today comes from your own experiences as an athlete, especially the way you were treated by your coaches. Many athletes have had the privilege of working with coaches they admired, coaches who built strong, trust-based relationships. These individuals likely modeled behaviors and attitudes that you’ve carried forward into your own coaching style.
On the other hand, you’ve probably also encountered coaches whose behavior didn’t align with your values, providing examples of what not to do. These experiences are equally valuable, helping you define the type of coach you don’t want to become.
ACTIVITY: YOUR ATHLETE EXPERIENCE
Refer to pages 21-22 in your workbook. In this activity, you’ll reflect on both types of coaches from your own journey.
Think about your favourite coach.
- Describe what made them great for you.
- What behaviour did they consistently display?
- How did they make you feel?
- What do you believe were some of their most important values?
- What lessons did you learn from this coach?
Now, think about your least favourite coach.
- Describe what made them your least favorite.
- What behaviour did they consistently display?
- How did they make you feel?
- What do you believe were some of their most important values?
- What lessons did you learn from this coach?