Feeling stretched between coaching commitments, a full-time job, and trying to have a life outside of it all? You’re not alone. Whether you’re coaching under-12s on the weekend, running skills sessions for adults after work, or just love learning how to coach better, balancing everything is a real challenge. The good news? With a few smart strategies and mindset shifts, it’s totally doable — and even enjoyable!
Why Time Feels So Tight
Most community coaches wear more than one hat. You might be:
- Working a 9-5 while coaching in the evenings or weekends
- Running between family commitments and sports fields
- Trying to fit in coach development or planning into late nights
Sound familiar? You’re trying to do a lot — and that’s because you care. But without a game plan, burnout can creep in quickly, especially if you feel isolated, under-prepared, or unsupported.
Top Time & Energy-Saving Tips for Coaches
1. Set Boundaries That Respect Your Time
Just because you love coaching doesn’t mean you have to say ‘yes’ to everything. It’s okay to:
- Turn down extra sessions if you’re stretched
- Block time off during busy work seasons
- Let others step in when needed
Being clear about when you’re available helps others plan and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed. As performance coach James Clear puts it, saying no doesn’t close doors — it protects your yes for the things that matter most.
2. Streamline Your Session Planning
Instead of reinventing the wheel every week, build a simple template for your sessions. Themes, warm-ups, and progressions can be adapted as needed but save you time in the long run.
Check out Sport Australia’s coaching resources for adaptable templates and session ideas across multiple sports.
3. Prioritise Relationships, Not Perfection
Your players, especially kids and beginners, don’t need every drill to run perfectly. What they’ll remember is how you made them feel: supported, encouraged, and included. Let go of overplanning and bring your energy instead.
This approach is rooted in athlete-centred coaching, which boosts confidence and engagement across age groups and ability levels.
FAQs: You Asked, We Answered
How do I keep sessions engaging for mixed-ability players?
Use adaptable games with clear goals and challenges. Allow players to choose difficulty levels or roles that suit them in the moment. Session variety and a positive vibe go a long way. For inspiration, try these inclusive coaching ideas from Scottish Disability Sport.
I’m unsure how to support anxious or low-confidence youth players. What can I do?
Listen, be patient, and create a safe environment. Use praise for effort, not just skill. Building trust takes time, but it’s worth it.
How can I stay motivated when it feels like I’m coaching alone?
Link up with others — even online. Join sport-specific forums, attend local workshops, or find a mentor coach. The Connected Coaches community is a great place to start.
How do I engage parents without conflict?
Set expectations early, involve them in supportive roles (like setting up equipment or managing communication), and let them know their positivity matters. More tips on that from Play By The Rules.
Quick Wins That Make a Big Difference
- Batch plan sessions: Create 3-4 ready-to-go themed sessions you can rotate.
- Limit your focus: Choose one skill or value to emphasise each session.
- Build player ownership: Let players lead warm-ups or set goals.
- Reflect simply: After each session, ask yourself: What went well? What would I tweak?
Need a reflection nudge? Try our blog 5 Powerful Questions to Ask Yourself.
Final Thoughts
Coaching isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what matters well. With small shifts in planning, mindset, and support networks, you can balance the love of coaching with life’s many moving parts.
You’re helping people grow — whether they’re 8 or 80. That’s powerful. And with the right systems and support, you can thrive, not just survive, as a coach.
Looking for more coaching tips? Check out What Makes a Great Coach?
