Half-Time Pep Talk: What coaching Can Do
I went to Twickenham this weekend to see South Africa play Argentina. Big crowd. Loud cheers. Lots of excitement.
In the first half, despite high expectations, South Africa was down. The score was 13-10 in favour of Argentina at half-time. The rugby champions looked like they had lost their mojo. They seemed tired and off point. Even though they had hammered Argentina 67-30 the previous week, that spark was nowhere to be found.
Then came half-time. Ah, half-time. And that’s when my mind went wandering. I wondered what was happening in the dressing room. What does the coach say? Does he shout at them? Probably not. Does he remind them who they are? I think yes. Does he highlight their strengths, pull back their energy and shift their mindset? I believe so.
The second half began. The crowd was still there, still loud. The team came back alive. They scored and took the lead. It may not have been the best game in history but the Boks did go on to win 29-27.
I kept thinking: what exactly did the coach do during that break? The same players who seemed off and unsteady were now sharp, driven and more confident. Something shifted. Either the coach said something very right or they drank a magic potion (or both).
Here’s the big thought: we all need a coach.
A coach gives you space to reflect. They help you to regroup when the chips are down. They show you where you have blind spots. They help you see a way forwards. They enable you to claim your own power. They inspire you to draw out what you are capable of - even if it’s not there right now.
Let's face it - life can be hard. And when it is, it's very easy to point a finger and blame things outside of our control - the government, people, bad luck or the past. We become reactive to what is going on around us rather than considering what is within us.
The truth is that we’re usually more able than we believe ourselves to be. And making changes that align with that reality - to take charge, to shift mindset, to build energy - is easier when you have someone beside you. Someone who helps you see what you can’t on your own.
That’s coaching. Not telling you what to do. But helping you discover what you can do.
The question is …. do you have a coach in your life? Coaches come in many forms - one-to-one mentors, supportive group programs or even trusted people who help you see your strengths.
I hope you have a coach in your corner but if not and you’d like to explore working with someone who can help you reflect, regroup and unlock your potential, I’d love to work with you. Together, we can find the strategies and support that help you step into your best self.
You can book a no-obligation call to find out more using this link: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=19464761&appointmentType=17427103
Here’s to living your best life!
Linda
