4 Comments
Oct 9Liked by Bob Galen

My initial take on the article title was, “duh. That’s the job.” But I was looking for ways in which Agile Coaches could mitigate burnout by self care or other ideas. Didn’t see that.

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I wrote it for more of a wake up call and need for toughness, Leon, than one focused on resilience and self-care. Not that they're unimportant, but it was not my focus.

I think you are a minority in your "duh. That's the job." reaction. That's the clue I'm hoping to inspire with the post.

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Oct 10Liked by Bob Galen

This piece really hits on the gritty reality of Agile Coaching. It’s not often we see such an unapologetic take on the job’s challenges, but nail it here. You confront some of the common complaints and excuses head-on, your tone—tough, direct, and seasoned—underscores just how demanding Agile Coaching can be.

The “Buck up, Buttercup” perspective is refreshing because it calls out the fact that Agile Coaches must earn respect, make hard decisions, and tackle real problems—not just deliver “fun” workshops or operate as passive facilitators.You remind us that stepping into this role means getting our hands dirty and making things happen. His advice to stop blaming “them” and start taking responsibility for driving change is a reminder that Agile Coaches are change agents, not spectators.

I also appreciate your take on burnout. Yes, it’s a real thing, and your emphasis that burnout for Agile Coaches often comes after giving it our all. We’re “In the Arena,” fighting to make a difference, and sometimes that means we need a break. Your call for recharging and jumping back into the fray with renewed focus is both honest and encouraging and definitely is not lost on me.

Overall, your message is an empowering challenge to Agile Coaches to take ownership, push boundaries, and rise above the hurdles. It’s a good reminder that the role of an Agile Coach is anything but easy, but it’s precisely the difficulty that makes the work meaningful.

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Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Taz. Your reaction what was I was hoping for when I write this piece.

I wanted it to be a challenge, but ultimately to empower and energize all you Badass Agile Coaches.

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