Years ago when I started coaching, I remember hearing the phrase “Coaching Philosophy.” It was something I heard at coaching clinics and routinely on podcasts. I struggled to figure out what mine was as I navigated the world of coaching and teaching. Like most coaches, it took time to learn who I was, how I coached, and what that looked like in order not to copy coaches before me or those I respected. Every coach goes through that balance.

Years ago, I came across this verse, and it has stuck with me as my coaching, teaching, and now administrative philosophy:

Galatians 6:7-9

7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.

9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

From this verse I came up with REAP , which comes down to, you reap what you sow.

Relationships, Effort, Attitude, and Process.

Relationships

Having relationships is what helps push a team, community, or business in the right direction. It’s the connections made that help build community, and it’s those relationships that provide support during good times as well as the tough ones.

Effort

This one is common sense ,  you get what you put in. My kids hear me say all the time, “Don’t be upset with the results you didn’t get, because of the work you didn’t put in.” That applies to anything: relationships, work, our walk with God, marriage, fitness, and more. There has to be deliberate effort every day.

Attitude

Mindset is everything. Having a positive one will help in the long run, but having a great attitude is a game changer. Keeping perspective during tough times, listening before being quick to judge, and seeing the good in all situations can make a huge difference when building teams and developing relationships.

Process

This applies to the fundamental work in your area. I was a teacher and now I’m a principal, so “the process” looks different than it does in business, but it’s the same principle: small steps taken every day move your school, team, program, or business in a positive direction.

When I step back and look at REAP and how it applies, the truth is we really do get what we put in. It’s not easy,  it takes deliberate action and daily choices to build those aspects above. And if you don’t like what you’re reaping, then you probably need to change what you’re sowing too.