Have you ever hit that point in your coaching business where you’re just sitting there thinking, “What the heck am I doing? Why isn’t my strategy working? Why aren’t clients showing up?”
First of all, let me say this: you’re not doing anything wrong. Every single coach I know—yes, even the ones who look like they’re killing it online—hits this wall at some point. A strategy that worked beautifully last month suddenly stops working. Social media changes overnight. Life pulls your focus somewhere else. And before you know it, you’re spinning your wheels in what I like to call the coach’s rut.
And honestly? It’s way more common than you think. But the good news is, you don’t have to stay stuck there.
Here’s what I’ve noticed: a lot of ruts happen when we’re leaning too hard on someone else’s strategy instead of building our own. Or when a platform changes and suddenly all the posts that used to get likes and comments are just…crickets. Sometimes it’s from scrolling and comparing ourselves to that coach with the big group or shiny funnel. And other times, it’s that little voice of imposter syndrome whispering, “Are you really cut out for this?”
But here’s the truth: even the most successful coaches feel this way sometimes. What matters most is how you move through it.
For me, the first thing I always do is pause and write it out. I grab a notebook and ask myself, what actually triggered this feeling? Was it a post that flopped? A no from a client? Or was I just spending too much time watching someone else’s highlight reel? Getting it out on paper clears the fog so I don’t carry those doubts into whatever I try next.
Then I test. And when I say test, I don’t mean I overhaul my whole business. I mean I pick one new strategy and try it. Last year I tried everything—Facebook groups, freebies, collaborations. Some worked for a while, then flatlined. Others didn’t do a thing. This year, I shifted focus to my email list, and honestly? It’s been a total game-changer. In just three weeks, my list grew from 347 to 511 subscribers. That’s 150 new potential clients I can connect with directly, without stressing about algorithms. If you don’t have an email list yet, I can’t recommend it enough.
The key, though, is sticking with it. We all want quick results, but the truth is, two weeks isn’t enough time to know if something’s working. Whatever you choose—email, YouTube, podcasting—commit to it for at least three months.
That consistency is what takes you from rut to momentum.
And let me say one more thing, because this one’s important. Sometimes we stay stuck because we make it too hard for clients to say yes. I’m all for charging your worth, but offering flexible payment plans doesn’t mean you’re discounting yourself. It just means you’re making your coaching more accessible. And for the right client, that can be the difference between them hesitating or jumping in.
So if you find yourself in the coach’s rut, remember this: you’re not alone. Pause and figure out what triggered it. Choose one strategy that feels good and give it time to actually work. Be open to flexibility when it comes to clients saying yes. And most of all, remind yourself that the right client is already out there waiting for you. Keep showing up in a way that feels aligned, and they’ll find you.
When I first started my coaching business, I didn't have a niche. I wanted to help everybody, which drove me crazy and led to burnout. It became clear that trying to be everything to everyone was not sustainable.
Finding your niche is essential because it allows you to focus your efforts, tailor your services, and connect deeply with a specific audience. This focus helps you become an expert in your area, making it easier for clients to find and trust you.
My Personal Journey: From Chaos to Clarity
In the beginning, my approach was scattered. I thought I could help anyone with anything, but this lack of focus led to confusion and frustration. I had to take a step back and really think about who I wanted to serve. It wasn’t an overnight revelation; it took time and reflection. Eventually, I realized that I excelled at helping new coaches and creative women. This clarity not only improved my business but also brought me a sense of fulfillment as I saw my clients thrive.
Identifying Your Ideal Client
One of the first steps in finding your niche is identifying your ideal client. Ask yourself, who do you enjoy working with the most? What are their specific needs, goals, and challenges? The more detailed you can be, the better. Your ideal client should resonate with your values, your expertise, and the type of transformation you are passionate about providing. For example, I love working with women who are just starting their coaching or crafting business and are eager to learn and grow.
Strategies for Niche Discovery
There are several strategies you can use to discover your niche:
Reflect on Your Passions and Strengths: Think about what you love doing and what you are good at. Your niche should align with your passions and strengths to ensure you remain motivated and credible.
Market Research: Look at the market and see where there is a gap. What problems are not being addressed? What can you offer that is unique?
Test and Iterate: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different niches. Offer various services, see what resonates with your audience, and refine your approach based on feedback.
Aligning Your Niche with Your Programs
Once you’ve identified your niche, it’s important to align it with your programs and services. Your niche should be reflected in everything you offer, from your coaching packages to your marketing materials. This consistency helps build your brand and makes it clear to potential clients what you specialize in. For instance, I focus on organic marketing, client attraction, and social media strategies for new coaches and creative women, ensuring my programs directly address their needs.
Embracing Your Unique Path
Remember, your niche is unique to you. It’s a combination of your experiences, skills, and passions. Don’t compare yourself to others; instead, embrace what makes you different. Your unique perspective is what will attract your ideal clients and set you apart in the crowded coaching industry. Stay true to yourself, and let your authenticity shine through in your niche.
Finding your niche is a journey, and it requires introspection, patience, and a willingness to adapt.
By focusing on what you love, identifying your ideal client, and aligning your niche with your programs, you can create a thriving coaching business that feels authentic and fulfilling.
Remember, you’ve got this! Keep pushing forward, and watch how finding your niche transforms not only your business but also your life.
Until next time, stay inspired, stay focused, and keep rising to your CEO potential.
