Great athletes don’t always make great coaches. It’s one thing to play a sport with excellence. It’s another thing to teach and show someone else how to do it. Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One” in hockey circles had major shortcomings as a head coach. Magic Johnson attempted coaching the L.A. Lakers, but was short-lived.
While great athletes possess the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their sport, coaching requires a different set of skills. Things like communication, leadership, and strategic thinking. Great coaches also need to be able to motivate and inspire their athletes.
I have found that great coaches and mentors are the short-cuts in leadership on and off the field. If you find a good mentor, you can shave years off your path, and avoid painful pitfalls. A mentor with a good map and good models can help you focus on what counts, and can help you bridge the gap between where you are, and where you want to be.
Growing significantly in your relationship with Jesus Christ requires someone to “show you the way.” Someone who is a few steps ahead of you and not only knows what it takes to grow, but they’re still doing it. I know, pretty basic stuff for many of you reading this…but essential. Looking for someone?