Some would say working in athletics is among the most rewarding jobs, but it can be among the most stressful and time-consuming of any profession.

Coaching is no different.

Every coach wants to succeed to the best of their ability, but what does it take to do that? Trying to find a work-life balance is important in any job, let alone one that has winning — and occasionally money — on the line.

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Jason Tenner has been in your shoes before. He's a USA Football regional camp coordinator and has been a high school football coach, and he knows what most football coaches across the country have to balance.

“As a younger coach, I struggled to find balance and was completely immersed in my career; teaching and coaching had all of my attention and I spent long days at school and working at home on weekends,” Tenner said. “As I have matured, I've learned that the time you put in isn't necessarily the most important component of success in coaching. The old saying ‘work smarter, not harder’ became a way I tried to live. 

“Efficiency is the key, and I have discovered if my personal life is thriving and enjoyable, then that makes me a better coach.”

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To illustrate his point, Tenner gives examples of things he does to make sure his life has balance. During the season, coaches tend to neglect their health, and early on, he was no exception, Now a seasoned vet, he manages his time more wisely. 

Workouts

Coach Tenner goes to bed earlier and wakes up at 5 a.m. to get workouts in.

“I don't miss my workouts and I have a partner to hold me accountable,” he said. “Working out helps me feel better, relieves stress and clears my mind in preparation for the day’s challenges."

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When you’re home, truly be home

He doesn’t take school work home or grade papers (he teaches AP Psychology and World History), and he only does the necessary things like break down film, prep for practice, etc., on prep period and at home after his kids have gone to sleep; (he has a 3-year-old daughter and 1-year-old son). 

“On weekends – when the rest of my family naps – I watch film, but when my kids are awake I am 100 percent in with them and my wife,” Tenner said. “My wife appreciates my commitment to both my family and my profession, and her support is also a huge factor in my ability to manage my duties.

“The key again is to maximize my time during the season; I can't waste time, there just isn't enough of it, so I multitask when I can and delegate things I can to other coaches. If I find myself with extra time, I'll also work ahead and break down film for opponents down the road, so when life happens, I have some flexibility.”

The silent key to success for coaches might not be how many hours they stay in the office breaking down opponents, but how aware they are in making time for family and other activities as well.