I have an interesting ability to step back from a given activity and become an observer. This ability has taught me many different lessons over my life. One recent example in the Colorado Rockies provided me with a great lesson for coaching other people.
I had the privilege of being a chaperone for a select group of young Rugby players that were representing the state of Wisconsin in a National tournament. During the trip we spent a couple of days at a YMCA camp in the Rockies. One morning we hiked up into one of the mountains (small mountain – mind you). The following picture is a view from the lookout point down to the camp.
Before I share about the hike up to this lookout point, I would like to give you a little background from the game of Rugby – all passes of the Rugby Ball are made to another player that is anywhere from slightly behind you to directly behind you. In many cases the ball carrier does not know exactly where the next man to pass to is. The player to receive the ball will typically yell “with you” to the ball carrier. In this way, the ball carrier knows that he is not alone and has some idea where the next player is.
Now I have never hiked in the Rockies and to say that I was in shape for this type of hike would be an outright lie. The young players headed right up the trail. Being a chaperone, I thought it best to bring up the rear in case anyone had trouble. I was walking with Jeff, our Head Coach, and Julie, another chaperone. The hike was more difficult than I anticipated. I was grateful for every time we rested. I was also grateful for advice on how to breathe at that altitude from Julie. I also noticed that Jeff took the time to wait for me and I am sure that he rested a couple more times just for my benefit. Both Jeff and Julie were gracious and encouraging. They with “with me” from the Rugby perspective. I won’t kid you - there was a voice in the back of my head that suggested that I turn around and go back down. With patience from my hiking partners we finally reached the top.
The coaching lesson is powerful. There are many times when people we work with (or even us) consider turning around from a difficult path. As a coach it is important to let others know that we are “with them”. It is also important to encourage someone to keep moving on a difficult path in a manner that is helpful to that individual. Sometimes patience and non-judgment are the most effective tools to help someone reach a goal.
I realize that it was a small hike but I cherish a powerful lesson and appreciate my hiking partners - Jeff and Julie.
© 2009 – Jim Lindell