Lean Into Your Strengths

How embracing what makes you unique builds confidence and impact

When I first started my mindset coaching practice, I was excited to showcase the new skills I learned through my Youth Coaching Institute certification. At the same time, I was nervous. Trying something new, putting yourself out there, and building confidence along the way isn’t easy.

Finding My Unique Coaching Strength

As I shared in my previous blog post about adaptability in basketball coaching, one of my favorite parts of this journey has become incorporating basketball skills into mindset training. It’s unique. It resonates. And honestly, it was staring me right in the face all along.

My relationship with basketball was a roller coaster. It brought me my best friends. It challenged my mental health. I faced injuries, traveled the world, made sacrifices, and experienced some of my greatest joys through the sport. Now, eight years since I've played competitively, I have rediscovered my love for the game.

Why Basketball Mindset Coaching Matters

For me, that clarity came recently while I was volunteer coaching. Seeing the players' faces light up when they made a basket or won a close game, and watching them learn from a missed shot or tough loss, reminded me of the beauty of this sport.

I’m also one of the small percentage of people who played Division I basketball for four years. I recognize now that this experience gave me skills, knowledge, and insights that not everyone has.

I realized my purpose is to use my experiences to help others. I’m grateful I can share what I’ve learned to support student-athletes’ growth, confidence, and mindset on and off the court.

What Strength Do You Overlook?

Sometimes what we’re meant to share is right in front of us. For you, maybe it’s cooking, graphic design, music, leadership, art, or the way you connect with people. Or maybe you’re on the brink of discovering that passion.

For me, it seemed so obvious that I overlooked it. Basketball was always just part of me. It didn’t feel extraordinary. But now I see how student-athletes connect, how parents react, and how deeply I can impact lives with something so many coaches, teammates, and supporters shared with me.

It feels like I’m returning the favor.

Gratitude for the Journey

I owe this realization first to my brother, who inspired me to play basketball, to my family, to all the coaches who taught me, to the teammates who pushed me, and to everyone who cheered me on, especially when it was really hard.