Finding Strength in Disappointment: A Coach's Journey
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Chapter 1: Facing Disappointment
Recently, I launched early enrollment for my coaching program but received no sign-ups. While this situation is disheartening, I want to explore my emotions surrounding this outcome and share why I still hold my head high despite what some may label as a “failure.”
Before we delve into this, let me clarify: Prioritize and Thrive is my premier group coaching initiative designed to help individuals transform their Big Ideas into actionable plans. By following a straightforward, repeatable process, participants can overcome decision fatigue and eliminate the paralysis that often accompanies too many choices.
Currently, the program is not open to the public as I am refining some key elements of our curriculum. However, with 33 eager individuals on the waitlist, I decided to offer early enrollment, which included bonus access to our exclusive podcast. Unfortunately, it seems that none were inclined to join.
As I began writing this reflection, I found myself fighting back tears. The weight of disappointment settled heavily in my chest. I invested significant effort into crafting the early enrollment page and drafting a sequence of emails for the waitlist. It takes considerable emotional energy to create a supportive environment, especially when days pass without any enrollments.
At this moment, as I confront the reality that my hard work did not yield the desired results, I can't help but feel a sense of disappointment. I acknowledge these feelings without shame; it’s a natural human experience.
Yet, amid this disappointment, another emotion emerges: pride.
Internally Sourced Confidence vs. Externally Sourced Confidence
In a piece I wrote last year, I discussed the difference between confidence drawn from external validation and that which comes from within. The latter is far more sustainable than the former.
Here’s how this principle manifests in my current situation: - I take pride in having the bravery to initiate early enrollment, which required me to present the new pricing (now three times higher due to the incredible results my clients have achieved). Adjusting pricing is no small feat, and it was a daunting task, but I faced it head-on. - I managed to dedicate time to this offering, demonstrating my ability to focus on what needs momentum. This is a core lesson I teach my clients, and I strive to embody it myself. - I am proud of the numerous emails I wrote to promote Prioritize and Thrive in fresh, engaging ways. This process helped me reconnect with the essence of the program, and I plan to repurpose this content for the official launch. - I allowed this endeavor to be a learning experience. I teach my clients the importance of viewing projects as teachers; it’s not solely about achieving specific goals but about the insights gained along the journey. - Lastly, I feel immense pride for my clients. While designing the registration page, I revisited new testimonials from those who have completed the program, and their words reaffirmed my confidence in the methodology I advocate.
Just moments ago, I was staring at my laptop screen with tears in my eyes. Now, with my tears dried and my heart feeling lighter, I choose to focus on the internal sources of confidence and the many reasons to feel proud of my efforts (and yes, the coffee is helping, too).
The Takeaway
The key takeaway here is to celebrate your courage in bringing your Big Ideas to life. That in itself is the real challenge. What follows is merely a chance for learning, growth, and gradual improvement.
D’Ana Joi is a life coach specializing in multi-passionate individuals and the host of the Multi-Passionate Mastery Podcast. She believes that having diverse talents is a gift, not a burden, and aids creatives in liberating themselves from the pressure of juggling multiple interests simultaneously.
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Chapter 2: Learning from Challenges
In the video titled "Why Your Group Coaching Program Is Failing Without This Simple Tweak," the speaker discusses common pitfalls in coaching programs and how to overcome them.
The second video, "THIS Makes Enrolling Coaching Clients Effortless [The Effortless Enrollment Mastery CYCLE]," offers strategies for seamless client enrollment, making the process easier for coaches.