How To Be More Coachable

Photo Credit: nba.com

"Coachable people seek out those who speak truth to them, even if it is a painful truth, because it protects them and it makes them a better person and leader."
-Gary Rohrmayer

Let's face it, the majority of people don't like to be coached. Often, we justify why we do what we do, instead of gracefully accepting what we need to change. People say they want to change, but struggle to handle constructive criticism. Having a coach is critical to progress and ultimately, your success. Often, we let our ego prevent us from reaching our full potential because we struggle to internalize and follow through on the necessary changes to grow.

What does it mean to be coachable? Being coachable means you are open to listening to feedback, able to receive constructive criticism without taking it personally, willing to analyze your own performance in order to improve it and desire to implement strategy to grow and change. A person who is coachable not only responds well when given feedback, they ask for feedback. They view the input from their coach as a valuable tool in their development.

Over my years of playing sports at a high level and in receiving focused mentorship over the last 12.5 years both personally and professionally, I wanted to share 5 ways that I found can help anyone become more coachable:

1. Be more vulnerable: the more honest and transparent you are with your coach, the more honest and applicable their feedback will be. 
2. Ask for feedback: the more you can communicate what you need from your coach, the more specific and directed the strategy will be. 
3. Check your ego: learn how to not get offended or make excuses. 
4. Learn to listen: there's a difference between hearing and listening. Listen more, justify less. Most importantly, ask clarifying questions if you don't understand something. 
5. Express gratefulness: be appreciative that someone is willing to invest in your success. A 'thank you' can go a long way.

There's good news! Becoming more coachable is a skillset, not a talent. It starts with building your growth mindset, becoming more open to learning and desiring feedback and guidance. Building in time for self reflection will help you develop your mental, emotional and spiritual self-awareness. Most importantly, establishing accountability with your coach will help you create consistency and continuity. Intentionality and consistency will always lead to excellence.

With love,
Brandon & Amanda