A long time ago, I went on a week-long vacation with my husband up to Grand Marais, MN and I challenged myself to read a book while I was up there. I like to challenge myself, set goals and be accountable… even on vacation. The book was an amazing read (The Bridges of Madison County) and whenever I think of that book I can remember where I was when I was reading it (on the shores of Lake Superior). Ever since that vacation, I have taken a book on trips that last a week or more. A couple of weeks ago, I traveled for work to Orlando and I challenged myself to read a book called The Talent Code: Greatness isn’t Born. It’s Grown. Here’s How. by Daniel Coyle. My business is all about developing people to their full potential and this book’s title really intrigued me.
The book started by asking some questions about talent hotbeds. Talent hotbeds are places that have developed greatness in their students. The book was filled with stories from musicians to baseball players who honed-in on their talent and developed it. These places have produced award-winning athletes, musicians and artists. In this book, Daniel Coyle seeks to understand why they are producing such great talent. What are these places doing differently to develop talent and can we replicate it in our schools, businesses and lives?
The book is divided into three parts; deep practice, ignition and master coaching. Deep practice is practicing effectively. It is practicing at a deeper level, not being afraid to make mistakes and using those mistakes to improve your talent. The second part of the book is ignition. This section is about passion-what makes you dance and sing? What gets you up in the morning? The last part talks about great coaches. There are four virtues that great teachers, trainers and coaches keep in mind when they are developing talent. Great teaching is a skill and Daniel Coyle gives a blueprint for great coaches to follow in chapter 9 of this book. I have reread this chapter several times to let it sink in!
I really enjoyed reading this book. As an educator, I know that you can change peoples’ lives by helping them find their inner greatness, nurturing that greatness and helping them put it out in the world. This book challenged me to think about the ways I can develop greatness in others. It is truly a must-read for teachers, coaches and trainers.
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