I have many coaches, but my Life Coach is my lifeguard. In the early years, my Cub Scout Leader, Choir Director, ASB Advisor, and Football Coach all made meaningful deposits in my growth bank. At UCLA, my Academic Advisor, Fraternity Big Brother, Weightlifting Coach, and Spiritual Discipler all helped me to make direction-setting decisions.

Coaches have gotten me through the demands of adulthood. My dissertation advisor got me through my Ph.D. program. My pastor got me through my dating years. My NCAA mentors got me through reffing camps, tests, games, and the nerves of officiating March Madness.

Coaches (of all kinds) help me in areas I’m not very good. I have a financial advisor, a tax man, a car mechanic, a plumber, an air conditioning guy, and a barber. Coaches also help me in areas I’d rather not spend my time; I now have a gardener, pool man, a pest control guy. I’m now contemplating paying someone to hang the Christmas lights for me this year (ha). But best of all, coaches help me to live well. I have a doctor, chiropractor, dentist, and orthodontist to keep my body and my teeth healthy and properly aligned.

And of course, I have my own Life Coach. Call him a counselor, consultant, therapist, or shrink, I have someone I meet with weekly who is committed to keeping my heart, mind, and soul healthy and aligned. Someone who keeps me thriving personally, professionally, and relationally.