“I’m Just a……” Stop Hedging and Own Your Role

I’m just a small school baseball coach. 
 
It’s scary, I’ve used that sentence on way too many occasions.  There have been times where I have said these words to others; however, my most frequent use is through self-talk. 
 
Have you used limiting phrases like this?  Have you ever put yourself in a self-imposed box? 
 
Why?
I’ve wrestled with why I, and I suspect many others, minimize their value.  I came up with three reasons:

1. We pay attention to the noise.  There are people who demean what others do.  Some faculty members believe competitive athletics are not necessary to a well-rounded education.  Some higher level coaches think lower division coaches are not knowledgeable.  Some members of the community don’t see coaching as a real job.  Somewhere along the line we start believing these “haters” are right. 
2. We lack conviction and confidence.  If you believe in yourself and your process it doesn’t matter what outsiders think.  When we say, “I’m just a…” we are hedging.  It gives permission to not hold ourselves to the highest standards and put forth our best effort. Why would I compete hard and strive for excellence when “I’m just a …..?”
3. We have false humility.  When we minimize what we do we feel we are being modest or humble.  We can’t mistake meekness with humility. 

I hope you understand and embrace that:

• You are not “just an administrative assistant”.  You are the front porch of the organization.  Your best self can set the climate.  The organization and writing skills you possess keep the group churning.  
• You are not “just a bench player.” The effort and approach you bring to practice demands everyone grow and improve.  Your positive attitude is contagious and inspires the entire team and staff.  The team cannot reach its ceiling without you. 
• You are not “just a teacher.”  You are responsible for the learning, growth and development of our youth.  For some kids, you are their source of safety and comfort. 
• You are not “just a small business owner.”  You are a sign of zest and courage.  You provide a product or service that improves the lives of the people within your community. 

 
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to interact with top leaders in various fields.  A common thread amongst the people I admire most is they realize the importance of everyone and every profession.  They are curious of what others do, they are appreciative of their sacrifices, and they admire driven people who are looking to make a difference.  So, while you may say, “I’m just a….” high level people and achievers don’t see it that way! 
 
A Note to Leaders:
This week may be the time to reset your approach.  Are you providing the platform for everyone in your organization to utilize their strengths?  Have you looked only to the leadership team or “key employees” for new ideas?  Do your people feel heard, understood, and appreciated? 
 
Consider how powerful your group can be if everyone believes th have the ability to make an impact.  Over 90% of people who read this will say, “yes, our people know they are valued.” 
 
But do they? 
 
Just writing, “thanks for all you do” or “I couldn’t do it without you” isn’t enough.  It’s actions and behaviors that matter.  What can you do today to inspire someone to share their true thoughts with you? 
 
Final Thought:
I have come to grips that I’m not “just a small school coach.”  Developing a culture that strives for excellence creates a learning platform.  Life mirrors sports.  The gut-wrenching losses and triumphant wins.  The feeling of giving all you have and not receiving the outcome you want.  The set-backs. Overcoming those setbacks.  The difficult and sometimes painful conversations.  Being there in times of need.  Celebrating great news.  Grieving in loss. 
 
“Just a coach” can’t create an experience like this.  Playing it safe and bending to society’s pressure to be average is what “just a coach” would do. 
 
That’s not me. 
 
That’s not you. 
 
Make a difference this week,
 
Mike

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