Words Count…
Words count. They have power and meaning and meanings and hidden meanings. And titles are words.
I used to be a tennis coach. Then I became a language coach. But trainer was thought to be a better word. So I became a trainer. Then people said I should be called a consultant. (“The money’s better if you are a consultant” they said). So I became a Communications Consultant. And Trainer.
Then I started speechwriting so I was a Speechwriter too. And then there was strategy to consider. Which I also do. So I was a strategy-mapping, speechwriting communications consultant and trainer.
Until a few weeks back.
I went to watch my nephews work out. They do gymnastics.
The gym is the entire top floor of a big industrial shed. It must have cost a fortune to design and furnish. Everything looks new and professional.
There is (the father moaned) a strict and expensive dress code for the kids. The guy in charge says uncompromisingly that if they want to compete they have to wear the kit.
Parents sit around and chat, surf the web or watch their kids being put through their paces through the full length viewing window or from the viewing platform (a bit like a squash court viewing area). Full transparency here!
The guy in charge is young, very calm and obviously knows exactly what he is doing. He has a group of 7 or 8 kids working very hard. He pushes them physically when they need to stretch more and bends joints and arms and legs and backs. Gently but very firmly. The kids grimace occasionally but he knows it is what has to be done. He corrects them with a few words and a guiding hand. He sips water calmly while they obediently and enthusiastically run from one exercise to the next. The kids laugh a lot.
In the viewing area there are glass cabinets with pictures of kids with medals and cups. And some large champion looking cups The man is good at what he does and he obviously gets results. I am sure he does strategy. He definitely understands the skills required. And the discipline and the work. He communicates well.
He also wears a tracksuit – like I used to wear when I was a tennis coach. And on the back it says in very large letters COACH.
I was humbled to watch him work. I know I can be better. He inspired me to be better and to try harder. He motivated and moved me without talking to me or even knowing I was there. He is a coach.
I am proud to be part of that industry. Coaching people to reach, stretch and push their personal best. I love being a coach. I want to be a better one.