Every Strategy Doesn't Fit Every Business

I get it. You're constantly bombarded with advice and online information on business creation, lead generation, and social media strategies. While much of this information can be valuable, it's crucial to evaluate these strategies through a lens that aligns with your authentic self, your unique business model, and your real-world schedule constraints. Shiny object syndrome doesn’t have to be a constant cycle for you.

The Authenticity Advantage

As coaches, our authenticity is our greatest asset. It's what sets us apart and allows us to connect genuinely with our clients. When considering the latest business strategies, ask yourself:

• Does this approach feel true to who I am?
• Will it allow me to showcase my unique strengths and experiences?
• Can I execute this strategy without feeling like I'm putting on a persona?

Remember, clients are drawn to coaches who are genuine and relatable. Strategies that force you to present an inauthentic version of yourself may yield short-term gains but can lead to burnout and disconnection in the long run.?

I know that personally I have implemented (or tried to) so many “expert methods”. Everything from “one program/one platform/one year” to “launch your podcast and watch the clients roll in”, only to discover that there really is no singular easy button. Success came when I settled into strategies that really resonated with my vision and personality while playing to my strengths. Don’t be afraid to mix and match!

Aligning with Your Business Model

Not all strategies are created equal, and what works for one coach may not work for another. You may want to consider:

• How does this strategy fit with my coaching niche and target audience?
• Will it complement my existing services and offerings?
• Does it align with my long-term business goals?

A business strategy that feels like a natural extension of your coaching practice is more likely to succeed and be sustainable over time.

This is also an extension of authenticity. For example, you may not be a huge fan of making videos of any kind, and definitely not ones with your face in them! I get it. But if your target audience is in their 30s, they consume a ton of video content, so you’ll have to figure out how to integrate that into your strategy. Or if you’re focusing on in-person retreats or workshops, immediately doing globally focused content is probably not going to be as productive as ensuring that you are posted in localized groups and pages.

The Reality Check: Time and Schedule Constraints

Perhaps the most critical factor in implementing any new strategy is whether it realistically fits into your schedule. Ask yourself:

• How much time can I consistently dedicate to this strategy?
• Will implementing this advice require me to sacrifice other important aspects of my business or personal life?
• Can I maintain this strategy long-term without burning out?

Time management is a crucial skill for coaches, and it's essential to be honest about what you can realistically accomplish. This can be one of the most difficult skills to learn because we want to do it all don’t we? And when we learn of a new skill or strategy that seems to fit into our business, we want to do it right away!?

Again, personal experience has shown me that almost 100% of the time the implementation of those strategies is going to take at least twice as much time as it looks, and then the maintenance of those strategies can be overwhelming. Just take a little time to really investigate the amount of work and time they will take to implement, maintain, and what skills you may need to acquire as well.

Embracing Imperfection and Iteration

As you evaluate different strategies, remember that perfection is not the goal. It's okay to start small and iterate as you go. Begin with approaches that feel most authentic and manageable, then adjust based on results and feedback.

The Power of Selective Implementation

Don't feel pressured to adopt every strategy you come across. Instead:

1. Choose a few approaches that resonate most with your authentic self.
2. Implement them in a way that complements your existing business model.
3. Start with what you can realistically maintain given your current schedule.
4. Evaluate the results and adjust accordingly.

By being selective and intentional about the strategies you adopt, you're more likely to create a sustainable and successful coaching practice that truly reflects who you are. The most effective business strategy is one that you can execute consistently and authentically, and by being judicious in considering new strategies and trends you'll create a coaching practice that not only thrives but also brings you joy and fulfillment.

Your unique journey as a coach is what makes you valuable. Embrace it, and let it guide you in creating the business that will help you and your clients flourish.