6 Books I wish I had when I started Coaching. Watch this video.

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Embarking on a coaching journey involves not only refining your skills but also delving into the depths of human understanding. In this article, we'll explore six books that have profoundly shaped my worldview as a coach and as an individual. These resources not only focus on coaching techniques but also delve into the intricacies of human connection, resilience, and personal development.

Every Moment Matters by John O'Sullivan

"Every Moment Matters" by John O'Sullivan provides a holistic approach to coaching, dissecting the "why," "how," and the emotional aspect of coaching. O'Sullivan not only shares practical coaching insights but also draws on research and experiences from legendary coaching minds like John Wooden and Vince Lombardi. This book stands out for its evidence-based approach, avoiding mere opinions and biases, offering a well-curated experience for coaches.

Favorite Quote: "We can be intentional about how we coach... every word matters, every action matters."

What You Should Know:

"Every Moment Matters" by John O'Sullivan is a comprehensive guide that breaks down coaching into three main components: why, how, and the emotional impact. O'Sullivan's approach covers essential coaching material while delving into aspects often overlooked, such as connecting with players, parents, and people in general. What sets this book apart is its reliance on research and insights from renowned coaching minds, ensuring a well-rounded and evidence-based perspective.

Why We Love It:

The book's unique blend of research, personal experiences, and wisdom from coaching legends creates a resource that goes beyond mere opinions. O'Sullivan's curated approach condenses years of coaching knowledge into a valuable, well-organized experience. The favorite quote, emphasizing intentionality in coaching, resonates as a powerful reminder of the impact every moment holds.

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Do Hard Things by Steve Magnus

"Do Hard Things" by Steve Magnus challenges conventional notions of resilience, toughness, and grit. Magnus breaks down the pillars of toughness into actionable steps, urging readers to embrace reality, listen to their bodies, respond instead of reacting, and transcend discomfort. Through scientific research and thought-provoking examples, Magnus disrupts the stereotype of toughness, offering a refreshing perspective essential for any educator.

Favorite Quote: "When we satisfy our basic psychological needs, we allow ourselves to reach our full potential."

What You Should Know:

"Do Hard Things" by Steve Magnus challenges preconceptions about toughness, resilience, and grit. Magnus introduces four pillars of toughness: ditching the fake, listening to your body, responding instead of reacting, and transcending discomfort. This book stands out for its refreshing take on toughness, backed by scientific research, challenging traditional views prevalent in coaching.

Why We Love It:

Magnus disrupts the common perception of toughness prevalent in coaching by providing actionable steps. His thought-provoking examples, rooted in scientific research, confront coaches with familiar scenarios in a shocking yet necessary manner. The favorite quote, emphasizing the importance of satisfying basic psychological needs for reaching one's full potential, has a profound impact on understanding resilience.

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The Culture Code by JP Nuran

"The Culture Code" by JP Nuran emphasizes the intangibles in coaching – the importance of fostering a positive culture. Nuran goes beyond theoretical concepts, providing practical tools for coaches to build and sustain positive team cultures. Monthly, six-monthly, and annual checklists ensure that coaches not only create but also maintain a positive environment.

Favorite Quote: "If you want to be a better Coach, you must become a better person."

What You Should Know:

"The Culture Code" by JP Nuran focuses on the intangibles of coaching – the importance of a positive team culture. Nuran not only highlights the positive effects of a healthy culture but equips coaches with practical tools to build and sustain it. Monthly, six-monthly, and annual checklists make this book a comprehensive guide for coaches aiming to create lasting positive environments.

Why We Love It:

Nuran's approach stands out for its practicality, providing not just theoretical concepts but tangible tools for coaches. The emphasis on maintaining a positive culture sets this book apart, and the inclusion of checklists ensures coaches have a roadmap for continuous improvement. The favorite quote, emphasizing the connection between personal growth and coaching effectiveness, serves as a powerful reminder of the coach's role in shaping positive cultures.

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What Happened to You by Oprah Winfrey and Bruce Perry

"What Happened to You" explores the profound impact of trauma on our lives, urging readers to understand and empathize with others' experiences. Oprah Winfrey and Bruce Perry provide essential knowledge on trauma while offering tools for personal growth and support. This book is a must-read for coaches, helping them connect with individuals whose reactions and responses are shaped by past experiences.

Favorite Quote: "Very often what happened takes years to reveal itself. It takes courage to confront our actions, peel back the layers of trauma, and expose the raw truth of our past."

What You Should Know:

"What Happened to You" explores the profound impact of trauma on individuals' lives. Oprah Winfrey and Bruce Perry delve into the intricacies of how experiences shape reactions, responses, and behaviors. The book provides essential knowledge on trauma and offers tools for personal growth, making it crucial for coaches seeking to understand and connect with individuals influenced by their past experiences.

Why We Love It:

The engaging tone, combined with research and watercolor diagrams, makes complex concepts accessible. The book challenges assumptions about how early experiences influence later life, encouraging a deeper understanding of individuals. The favorite quote, acknowledging the courage required to confront actions and trauma, resonates as a reminder that healing begins with acknowledging the raw truth of our past.

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Marriage Rules by Harriet Lerner

"Marriage Rules" by Harriet Lerner, although targeted at relationships, offers valuable insights into human interaction. With 106 rules revolving around the theme of connection, Lerner's book provides guidance on effective communication, understanding others, and offering apologies. These principles are applicable beyond romantic relationships, making it a valuable resource for coaches dealing with diverse personalities.

Favorite Quote: "Defensiveness is normal and universal. It is also the enemy of listening."

What You Should Know:

"Marriage Rules" by Harriet Lerner, though targeted at relationships, offers valuable insights into human interaction. With 106 rules revolving around the theme of connection, Lerner's book provides guidance on effective communication, understanding others, and offering apologies. These principles are applicable beyond romantic relationships, making it a valuable resource for coaches dealing with diverse personalities.

Why We Love It:

Lerner's book provides practical guidance for effective communication and understanding, crucial skills for any coach dealing with various personalities. The inclusion of rules with explanations and examples enhances the book's applicability. The favorite quote, addressing the normalcy of defensiveness and its impact on listening, offers valuable insights for coaches navigating challenging conversations.

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Rising Strong by Brené Brown

"Rising Strong" by Brené Brown explores the importance of vulnerability in personal and professional growth. Brown validates the fears of failure and teaches that embracing vulnerability leads to meaningful connections. As coaches, embracing failure, and showing vulnerability becomes crucial for creating an environment where individuals feel safe to fail.

Favorite Quote: "If you're not in the arena getting your ass kicked, I'm not interested in your feedback."

What You Should Know:

"Rising Strong" by Brené Brown explores the importance of vulnerability in personal and professional growth. Brown validates the fears of failure and teaches that embracing vulnerability leads to meaningful connections. As coaches, embracing failure and showing vulnerability becomes crucial for creating an environment where individuals feel safe to fail.

Why We Love It:

Brown's writing resonates with coaches seeking to create environments where failure is embraced as a part of growth. The favorite quote, highlighting the importance of being in the arena and experiencing challenges, serves as a powerful reminder for coaches to lead by example. Brown's emphasis on vulnerability adds a layer of authenticity to coaching, fostering more genuine connections.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes a book the "best" for coaching?

The best books for coaching are those that provide a comprehensive and insightful perspective on coaching techniques, human psychology, and personal development. These books often go beyond mere opinions, incorporating research, practical tools, and real-world examples.

How do these books contribute to coaching effectiveness?

These books contribute to coaching effectiveness by offering valuable insights, evidence-based strategies, and practical tools. They cover a range of topics, from understanding the emotional impact of coaching to fostering positive team cultures, and from resilience and toughness to effective communication.

Are these books suitable for coaches at all levels?

Yes, these books are suitable for coaches at all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. They offer a diverse range of perspectives and insights that can benefit coaches working in various sports and with different age groups.

Conclusion

These six books offer a comprehensive guide for coaches looking to enhance their coaching skills and personal development. By embracing evidence-based approaches, fostering positive cultures, understanding trauma, and appreciating vulnerability, coaches can create impactful relationships and lead individuals toward growth and success. Share your transformative book recommendations in the comments and let's continue learning and growing together.