Stop Encouraging Mediocrity

One of the worst things we can do as coaches—or even as teammates—is let bad reps slide. If something sucked, say it. Tell the truth. Then show them how to fix it. That’s how real growth happens.

What doesn’t help is pretending effort was “good enough” when it wasn’t. That’s not kindness—it’s laziness. And that laziness sets the tone for mediocrity to become the norm.

Anyone can be average. It takes real effort to hold yourself and others to a higher standard. That means learning to take (and give) constructive criticism without getting defensive. It’s not personal—it’s about getting better.

And this goes both ways: coaches and athletes. Hold the standard. Say what needs to be said. Then get to work on the solution. That’s how progress is made.