I Got Out-Coached

Years ago I coached youth basketball. Interestingly, I learned that coaching children also taught me a lot about business.

Like any real estate negotiation or business deal, when the game clock is ticking, there is no opportunity to go back and better prepare. Verbal directions must be swift, clear, and understood. Game plans may be great but adapting is a skill that is just as important as defensive schemes and in-bound plays.

My first three years of coaching were rough. Rough on me and rough on the teams. Like many agents, leaders, and brokers, I had much to learn about coaching.

Knowing how to do something, in sports or business, does not mean you are well prepared to lead others in this thing. This led me to make many mistakes and, candidly, it cost my teams a number wins.

In a number of the close games we lost, I looked back and realized I got out coached. Out-coached does not even mean the same as getting out-played. Outstanding effort alone does not ensure victory or even competitiveness.

For effort to lead to success it usually requires focus, planning, adaptability and preparation.  Granted, sometimes some good fortune just happens despite a lack of planning. But that is the exception, not the rule, and not something you should count on for the outcomes you desire.

The best agents and brokers are not accidents and they don't just work hard. They prepare hard and they make a point to keep learning.

Coaching, playing the game, and being a great real estate professional are all skills. For each, by practicing, studying, and experience, we become better. All of these actions require a level of commitment and discipline. The better we are at that commitment and discipline, typically the better our outcomes over time.

While disappointing, I never looked at those games I got out-coached as failures, simply lessons in how others were better coaches. It helped develop my understanding of the game, of the players, and of opposing coaches. I've used that to help my business, my clients, and yes, the basketball teams I would later coach.

Effort is great (and essential), but learning as you go is what turns raw effort into success and opportunity.