Why I Became a Coach

Serving as an educator for the past 17 years, mostly as an administrator, brought many joys, new learning, and understanding of how to serve others. The decision to step away from public education came back in March of 2023 when my wife and I had to make a decision to continuing growing my career or to better care for our two daughters. While I wavered for a few weeks, we ultimately decided I would step away from the principalship to ensure our daughters had a life we wanted them to have. I am grateful for my wife and the time spent coming to this decision. The journey in education was not always bright nor clear, but led me to where I am today and I am forever grateful for the experience. I am proud of my time in public education and hope to return to serve as an educational leader, in some capacity, in the future. It's not a "good-bye", but a "see you later."

So, why did I begin the journey to become a coach? Back in the summer of 2019, several Austin ISD principals and I were fortunate to receive Level 1 Coaching through Results Coaching Global. We spent several days being coached and learning how to coach others. I and my principal colleagues found this training to be incredibly beneficial to learn more about each other, how to effectively listen, and partner with others to witness growth. It was also great to have someone to talk to that was intently listening to me. Needless to say, I was hooked and wanted to learn as much as I could about various coaching strategies to positively benefit my work.

Over the next few years, the many hours of training and studying began to pay off. I was able to truly understand what someone wanted without them saying anything through questioning techniques and observing emotional cues. This was not only beneficial to them, but also gave me energy to continue to grow. This training paid off significantly as the COVID-19 pandemic began to set in during the late spring and summer of 2020. I was able to intently listen to staff members and to tune in better to parent's concerns and frustrations (particularly about sending a close contact student home for 10 days). Doing so allowed us to formulate a plan together. While it was a trying time, I grateful for the experience.

I now spend my days serving clients, mainly virtually, and parter with them to see how small bits of progress each week allows them to eventually achieve the goals they have for themselves. I am fortunate to be able to continue to meet with other coaches to pick their brain about how to better serve my clients and how I can communicate the benefits of coaching to others. Coaching is truly something that everyone could benefit from. I have also spent time volunteering at my kid's school and taking care of their individual needs. I am incredibly thankful to be able to do this while continuing to serve. Lastly, I have also spent many hours training for my first 100 mile trail race on December 3, 2023. I have learned an immense amount about rest, recovery, nutrition, and how to push myself further than I thought possible. Running keeps me committed to growth and change.

What can coaching do for you?