Striving for both quantity and quality is a cornerstone of effective coaching, regardless of the field. A coach who focuses solely on quantity might provide endless tasks or feedback, but without an emphasis on quality, these actions can be superficial and cannot address the underlying issues. The individual might be “doing” a lot, but he or she isn’t truly improving. Conversely, a coach obsessed with quality might spend too much time on a single detail, neglecting other important aspects of the individual’s development. This approach can lead to perfectionism and stagnation, as the individual never gets enough practice or exposure to a variety of situations. Both extremes, while seemingly productive, are ultimately counterproductive to holistic growth.
The true art of coaching lies in the delicate balance between these two aims. Quantity provides the necessary repetition and exposure for skills to become second nature, building resilience and stamina. Quality, on the other hand, refines technique, deepens understanding, and ensures that the individual is not just repeating a behavior but performing it correctly and efficiently. A coach must integrate both. For example, in a business coaching session, a coach might have a client write 10 new sales emails (quantity) but provide specific, actionable feedback on the clarity and effectiveness of each message (quality). This ensures that the high volume of work is not just a rote exercise but a deliberate effort toward mastery.
Ultimately, the quote serves as a powerful reminder to avoid using one goal as a crutch for the other. It’s easy to fall into the trap of saying, “I’m focusing on quality” as an excuse for a lack of effort or a low volume of work. Similarly, a coach might claim, “We’re just getting reps in” to justify sloppy or unfocused practice. Great coaches understand that this is a false dichotomy. They aim to push their clients to do more while simultaneously ensuring that every effort is meaningful. This dual-focused approach not only speeds up development but also instills a mindset of continuous improvement, where the individual learns to seek both high volume and high standards in all their endeavors.
Have a wonderful week.
Luc Dermul
CEO & Founder of The Coach Valley & Life Coach