Lessons in Mental Performance and Life
In this episode, I have a conversation with Gary Chupik, a mental performance coach and the creator of the “GAMEPLAN FOR LIFE”. Gary is a certified coach through the International Coaching Federation ICF. He has a master's degree in Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary, and anundergraduate degree in Religious Education from Eston College.
Gary refers to himself as a prairie boy, as he was raised in Regina, Saskatchewan. In this episode, the listener will appreciate how this view on life has kept him grounded, enabling him to approach leadership by building relationships.
We go through his journey attending Eston College and the Canadian Bible College, where he completed his degree in Religious Education. His pursuit of his master's degree in Divinity at Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, California, and settling in the Seattle area are discussed. Gary reflects on his decision to pursue a career in the ministry. He shares his experiences of his many roles, including youth leadership, discipleship, senior pastoring, church planting, and chaplaincy.
Gary discusses how his career evolved from working as a chaplain at the Veterans Hospital in Seattle. The transition from this to his role with the Seattle Thunderbirds, leading to a career shift, is revealed.
Gary opens up and talks about a turning point in his life. It was the mishandling of his energy that led to burnout. He discloses his brief sabbatical and what he did during this period. His honest reflection that reshaped his direction, resulting in his coaching practice, the “GAMEPLAN FOR LIFE”.
We talk about his pursuit of being a certified coach and his experiences with the International Coaching Federation ICF. We address misconceptions regarding the roles of chaplain, coaching, and mentorship. There is insight into the above-mentioned roles, specifically coaching and leadership. It is not about having the right answer, but helping others figure it out is what leadership entails.
Gary shares his coaching practice. He provides many examples of how he works with clients. In doing so, he provides material for the listener to think about how they can live better. Topics include taking time out daily to visualize, dream, and assess what we want to achieve. It is understanding who we are and what we want to become, and the willingness to make sacrifices when need be.
This interview will appeal to anyone with a desire or considering a career in the ministry, chaplaincy, or the church. It will interest anyone considering coaching for a career. Career change is talked about extensively. Above all, this interview is about leadership, as Gary has many examples from all facets of his life. It is about leading by living authentically and being comfortable with who we are and what we want to do, and being willing to do the work. It is finding our expectations and our desire for how we live. Gary exemplifies all these traits. It is about finding the best qualities and getting people to live to their fullest, which is what leadership is and what Gary does.