If it isn't optional, how come it feels like it is?

Colleagues,

MVP: Developing people requires a systems approach.
 
We generally hold athletic coaches in high regard. Unless they lose to their rivals like my Buckeyes did last month 😖
 
What do we expect from them?
 
Winning of course, but we expect coaches to excel at player development. The essential part of a coach’s job is to help players become better by improving their skills and physical attributes.
 
In fact, the better the athlete, the more important coaching becomes!!
 
So why does it seem like developing teachers, salespeople, medical technicians, or anyone else is optional?
 
I reflect on my experiences as a teacher. I earned National Board Certification and was regarded by (most) of my students and their families as an excellent teacher. But I know so much more now than I did back then and I can identify so many missed opportunities and small tweaks that would have helped me be so much better.
 
Why is intensive development optional, for leaders and for those they serve?
 
Today’s intention: Step back and think about your organization and the systems it has in place that support consistent development of your people. What’s working? What’s not? Are there any simple tweaks to make coaching or supporting growth a tiny bit easier?
 
Cheers!

Frederick