Similarities Between Doctorate Coaches and Sports Coaches

I’ve always been fascinated by the relationships that athletes have with their coaches. They have an incredible bond because quite frankly, the coach believed in them when they didn’t believe in themselves. The coach poured into the athlete, encouraging them along the way and helping them to stay focused on their goals. I believe that sports coaches have some similarities to a doctorate or dissertation coaches are here are some of my thoughts on the topic.

Help you reach your highest potential - Similar to sports coaches, a doctorate coach is there to help you get results. There are times when you may feel all alone or unsure of what to do during your doctorate journey. Some doctorate students turn to their dissertation chair for support and end up disappointed by the lack of guidance or care. This is where a doctorate coach comes in. A coach is there to get you results. A coach is dedicated to working with you, determining the areas in your processes or life that need adjustment to get you the results that you need.

A coach serves as your cheerleader - One of the best things about a sports coach and doctorate coach is that you gain a cheerleader who wants nothing more than to see you succeed. A coach encourages you to push through being stuck and celebrates your wins. A cheerleader is helpful during the doctorate journey as the road is long and lonely. The process is particularly difficult for women of color who do not normally see themselves reflected in the faculty or student population and experience microaggressions and bias. A coach can keep you motivated as you experience hardships. Furthermore, coaches provide you with motivation right when you need it.

Help getting strategic - Ever see how the sports coach provide critique/feedback of an athletes performance? A doctorate coach can provide similar feedback to help doctorate students pivot. This would require more than a one off appointment and perhaps meeting at least every other month. Consistent meetings will help with assessing and strategizing on the best approach.

So those are my thoughts on the similarities of sports coaching and doctorate coaching. There are definitely other parallels but the three that I listed above are the ones that I think are the biggest benefits. What do you think? Are there other similarities that you think are important? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.

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