A Coach Who Inspires. Upgrading Your Thermostat

Posted by JosephV on October 10th, 2007 filed in Ezine

In life, many of us are fortunate to have a coach who reminds us of our Greatness.   For some, that coach could be a parent, a friend, a manager, a spiritual advisor or perhaps a real-life coach.  My fencing coach back in college took a stand for me and reminded me of the importance of not only working hard and getting good grades, but also about living a life that I love.  He created a team of athletes who pushed each other me to higher standards.

Over the past few years I’ve become a serious movie buff.  One scene that comes to mind is Al Pacino’s role as the coach for the Miami Sharks in Any Given Sunday.  He’s vulnerable, and not only motivating,  he’s extremely inspiring.  Each time I see this scene.  I’m reminded of my fencing coach, and all the people in my life now who see me for possibility.

Another inspiring coach is in the movie Facing the Giants.  We all have a comfort zone or some say a mental thermostat that we live by.  Imagine having a coach who pushes you beyond the boundaries that either you or society set.

There is of course more to the equation.  Raising and maintaining your thermostat involves shifting the environment and the people who surround you and creating new empowering habits and asking better questions.

One question I ask myself daily and have my coaching clients ask themselves is  “Where I have you raised or lowered your standards”.  For me, this question allows me to look for opportunities to play a bigger game and be on my edge daily.  What questions are driving you?