Coaching is a demanding profession. The hours during the season are long and family time is limited. Practices and games often conflict with family functions, school plays, recitals, and more. A lot of sacrifices need to be made by a lot of people, and our families work just as hard (or even harder) as we do picking up the slack caused by our absence.
Stephen Covey’s book “First Things First,” very rightly reminds us to prioritize our time, and to be thoughtful in doing so. Please make sure you carve out family time. Resources permitting, take a week or more vacation with your family every year. During that week, put the laptop and tablet away, don’t take any calls from other coaches, and focus on your family. Though it sounds cliche, you’ll blink, and children will be grown and opportunities lost…
In Vermont, we have a 10-day “dead period” where, as coaches, we are not allowed to schedule any organized team activities. It is the ideal time to take a vacation, recharge the batteries and invest in those who support your coaching endeavors all year long.
As I prep for my vacation and complete this week’s somewhat shorter than usual blog, I’ve also completed practice schedules and scripts needed when I return. With a clear slate, I can truly relax and enjoy my family. I’m genuinely looking forward to our family time together and wish you the best with yours.
Coach Rich Alercio is available to discuss coaching philosophy, X’s & O’s, or teach his O-Line “techniques in the trenches.” Contact Coach at richalercio@gmail.com and share http://www.olineskills.com with your colleagues and friends. Thanks for supporting this blog and joining our conversations, and as always, thanks for your time!
O Line Skills 