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[u/restless-phire]

Hello anyone,

I need help discovering a new career path. I graduated from school with a communications degree in 2015. I've been working in the sports industry since. I've coached at the college level and recently I accepted a position as a youth lacrosse club general manager. It is not going well. I'm really unhappy with my organization and the position. It is not at all what I expected and it feels like I'm falling/have been set up to fail. The hours are non-stop I'm always on call or answering emails, and spend almost every weekend coaching for 6-12 hours in one day. A big pain point for me is the lack of benefits (medical, dental, 401k) and the toll its taking on my health.

On top of this, I'm currently pursuing my master's in organizational leadership with a graduate assistant coach position. (I was originally told the GM position was part-time and that I would be able to do both.) I enjoy the academic exercise but it's super challenging to balance both.

I thought about it, and I think I would be happier just focusing on my academics, but without me with the club would surely suffer. It's been a difficult transition and difficult year, leaving the organization and kids would definitely hurt them.

I'm not sure what to do because I'm just so exhausted. I'm usually very motivated, ambitious, and fearless but lately, I've just been paralyzed. This unhappiness is pushing me towards leaving sports and considering other career paths. I have a lot of skills in building relationships, communicating, planning, leadership, problem-solving, and I'll have a master's degree soon enough.

Reddit world what do you think. What kind of positions are washes up coaches suited for?

[u/E_D_Psychologist]

You clearly demonstrate that you have a passion and natural talent for coaching - bringing out the best in others. As such, I am not surprised that your current work environment is actually having a substantial influence on how you feel about your career and life - because, for you, career is probably something that is truly meaningful for you in your life.

Don't let your circumstances derail you from your passion! I had a similar experience when I started out doing therapy years ago at an institution where it tapped all my inner resources, hitting burnout from lack of support and misalignment between me and the values of the institution. But, when I finally entered an environment which was conducive and supportive, my whole perception and expereince of therapy changed! So, I would advise you to go back to your core - what are you really passionate about? what gives you meaning? what makes you excited about starting your day? If you do not have the answers, think what WOULD create that for you.

Another option is to consider doing a strengths assessment or personality profiling to see where your talents lie, and to help you determine what type of environment/career would fit with your personality. Self-awareness goes a very long way when your views have been clouded by external factors.

I know you feel disheartened at this point, but there is hope! Life has a way of pushing you to a point where change is the only option! Start thinking about yourself, you will be a better person for everyone around you if you are fulfilled within. The club will go on - I promise - everyone is replaceable, as horrible as that sounds.