December 15, 2006, Newsletter Issue #274: Fills Players' Emotional Tanks

Tip of the Week

The Positive Coaching Alliance says that a Positive Coach is a positive motivator who refuses to motivate through fear, intimidation, or shame. He recognizes that every player has an "Emotional Tank" like the gas tank of a car. Just as a car with an empty gas tank can't go very far, a player with an empty emotional tank doesn´t have the energy to do his best.

A Positive Coach understands that compliments, praise, and positive recognition fill Emotional Tanks. He understands the importance of giving truthful and specific feedback and resists the temptation to give praise that is not warranted. When correction is necessary, a Positive Coach communicates criticism to players in ways that don´t undermine their sense of self-worth. A Positive Coach strives to achieve a 5:1 "Plus/Minus Ratio" of praise to correction.

A Positive Coach establishes order and maintains discipline in a positive manner. He listens to players and involves them in decisions that affect the team. He works to remain positive even when things aren´t going well. He recognizes that it is often when things go wrong that a coach can have the most lasting impact and can teach the most important lessons. Even when facing adversity, he refuses to demean himself, his players, or the environment. He always treats athletes with respect, regardless of how well they perform.

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