Let’s be real for a moment…

Are you showing up for your kids as the best version of yourself, or are you phoning it in and expecting them to give 100% while you give…whatever’s left?

No one is perfect. Let’s not pretend otherwise. Being the best version of yourself every single day isn’t human, that’s why grace exists. The reality is, excellence isn’t about perfection; it’s about self-awareness and the relentless drive to grow.

Great leaders know how to self-assess… not once a season, but constantly. Where am I strong? Where am I coasting? Where can I grow?

Now let’s talk about this generation of kids.

Yes, they’re different. They’re being raised in a world that looks nothing like the one we grew up in. But don’t confuse different with worse. Today’s kids are emotionally intuitive, deeply inquisitive, and hyper-aware of what’s happening around them- which includes those leading them. They’re not just listening to what you say; they’re watching what you do.

We grew up assuming our parents/teachers/coaches always had the answers.

Today’s kids? They ask for the “why.” They want to understand the bigger picture. That can feel jarring if your leadership is built on ego or “because I said so.” They’re growing up in a world that questions the status quo, which is their superpower if you can put your pride aside let it be their strength. If your leadership is built on connection and purpose, their curiosity is gold. It’s an invitation, not a threat.

If we want buy-in, we need to give better why.

If we want accountability, we need to model it.

If we want effort, we need to show them what full effort looks like.

So here’s the uncomfortable truth:

• Don’t lecture kids about nutrition while showing up with fast food every day.

• Don’t talk accountability but fail to follow through on consequences.

• Don’t push them on strength and conditioning when you haven’t picked up a dumbbell since 2015.

• Don’t preach focus and presence if your mind is checked out at practice and you constantly pull your life baggage into the gym.

• Don’t demand preparedness or punctuality if you’re strolling in at the last second with no plan.

Leadership is not about perfection.

It’s about alignment.

Do your actions match your expectations?

Lead from the front. Set the tone. Set the pace. Set the standard…. and watch your athletes meet you there.