Why You Need a Coach

At the time of drafting, Industrial Athletics has been open for just over eight years. For a little over 5 of those years, we’ve had a business coach. Since 2009, I have been focusing on my diet through some kind of macro tracking. Recently, I hired a diet/nutrition coach. I’ve been making fitness a priority in my life for over 20 years. I’m also considering hiring a fitness coach/personal trainer. I’ve been in the fitness industry for over twenty years. I have multiple trainer certificates and certifications. I’ve read the books, watched the videos, trained individuals and small groups, and run two gyms. So, why do I need coaches? Simple, to get to the next level.

The Funnel

As you advance in life your needs become more and more specific. I heard this once described as a funnel. When you start, at the top of the funnel, you have a wide variety of options. Anything you do with focus will move you forward. However, as you become more and more specialized and experienced, the funnel narrows. As the funnel narrows, the actions that continue to move you forward become more and more specific.

This funnel principle applies to anything in life you are trying to do with excellence. It doesn’t have to be fitness/nutrition related. When you start a new job, every experience moves you forward. The benefits of exposure are as wide as the top of the funnel. However, as you advance in your career, you need more specific training and exposure.

Finding a Coach

While you are new, you can train yourself to do just about anything. This is especially true in today’s world where information on any topic is available on the internet. However, at some point, you will stop progressing by yourself. Why? Because you don’t know what you don’t now. Additionally, Honest unbiased self-assessment is almost impossible. Therefore, you need a coach to take you to the next level.

Finding a coach can be difficulty. So, here are two ways to find a one:

1. Find someone who is in the place you want to be. If you want to be a power lifter, find someone who is already a power lifter. Do you want to be a partner in your firm? Find someone who is already a partner. Once you find that person, start asking questions.
2. You can also look for someone who is able to do something you cannot. This is especially useful for really busy people. If you are struggling with figuring out a healthy diet, hire a nutrition coach who has the time to do it. If you don’t have time to spend finding best business practices, hire a business coach who has taken the time to figure them out already.