Book Review: Chop Wood Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf

"Chop Wood Carry Water" by Joshua Medcalf is often recommended for parents of young athletes because it offers valuable lessons about the process of mastery, discipline, and the mindset required for success in any endeavor, including sports.

In 2016 my oldest son was transitioning from a club near our home to what was then called Crew Pre-Academy it was a part of the Crew Player Development System and for us it was a whole new world. It was instantly clear that the professional coaching environment and the expectations for players and parents would be different from what we were used to. In our first parent meeting our coach suggested two books for us to read as parents and to share with our players. "Chop Wood Carry Water" was one we read and listened to together and I now recommend it to parents and players looking for a pathway to finding solid mindset.

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Here are a few reasons why it's beneficial:

1. Focus on Process Over Outcome: The book emphasizes the importance of focusing on the journey rather than solely on the end result. This is crucial for young athletes as it teaches them to value the effort they put into their training and development rather than just winning or losing.

2. Building Resilience: Young athletes often face setbacks, failures, and challenges along their journey. "Chop Wood Carry Water" teaches resilience and the ability to bounce back from these obstacles, which is a vital skill for both athletes and their parents to cultivate.

3. Mindset Training: The book delves into the power of mindset and how it can influence performance. Parents can learn strategies for fostering a growth mindset in their young athletes, which can lead to greater motivation, persistence, and ultimately, success.

4. Life Lessons Beyond Sports: While the book is geared towards athletes, its principles apply to life in general. Parents can glean insights into personal development, goal-setting, and the importance of discipline that can benefit their children beyond the realm of sports.

5. Communication and Support: Understanding the principles outlined in the book can help parents communicate more effectively with their young athletes. It can provide a common language and framework for discussing challenges, setting goals, and providing support throughout their athletic journey.

Overall, "Chop Wood Carry Water" offers a holistic approach to personal and athletic development, making it a valuable resource for parents looking to support their young athletes in reaching their full potential.