Steve Jobs stated, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those who accomplish great feats are driven by a unique passion for what they do. During my sophomore year of high school, I fell in love with coaching soccer. Playing sports was an integral part of my childhood. I enjoyed exercising in the sun, socializing with friends, and celebrating victories with my team. Unfortunately, as I advanced into a competitive club league, I began to be very hard on myself and set unrealistic goals of perfection which were exacerbated by an overly critical coach. Practice after practice and game after game, I left feeling upset and defeated, even when we won. Because of this flawed mentality, it became increasingly important to have a supportive and positive coach. Throughout my years of soccer, basketball, and swimming, I had coaches who uplifted me and some who tore me down. These experiences motivated me to volunteer as a coach who not only develops the skills of those on the team but also exemplifies positive reinforcement. Two years ago, I began volunteering as a soccer and basketball coach for young children. Two times a week, I planned out practices and games and worked with a team of children to develop their soccer and basketball skills, teamwork, communication, and cooperation. When I began coaching, I found it discouraging when the children would not listen. Often, young five and six year olds would end up playing in the dirt or picking dandelions. Over time, I learned methods that helped me to be engaging, uplifting, and educational as a coach. I worked to ensure that all of my feedback was positive and uplifting. If a child made a mistake, I would attempt to compliment them for something they did well and then redirect the behavior or action that I had noticed. I observed that this method helps the children feel good about themselves while also understanding that they can improve on certain aspects of their skills. Neuroscience has demonstrated that this type of coaching is more effective and provides ancillary benefits outside of sports. As a coach, I was able to see firsthand the value of service and volunteering. Although I was only with the children I coached for a short while, I saw them grow in numerous ways. I saw their confidence in themselves grow throughout the season. I felt their love for the sport increase. I witnessed new friendships forming as a result of teamwork and cooperation. I saw shy, timid children become hard-working and confident soccer players. Coaching these children has helped me discover my love of teaching kids and helping them overcome their obstacles. The skills and passion for teaching I developed during my seasons of coaching have smoothly transferred over to my job as a piano teacher and youth camp counselor. I have noticed that my patience, empathy, leadership, and compassion have grown and become stronger throughout my experience working with children. These experiences that have molded me into the person that I am have also shaped my vision for the future. I see myself helping children for years to come as a mother, social worker, and teacher. No matter what I choose to do, I know the most important thing to me is making a positive and impactful difference in the lives of those I help.