Strategy

I Just Wish I Knew It Would Pay Off Fast

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“I just wish I knew it would pay off fast.”

A coach considering one of my programs said this to me recently, and I think I surprised her with my response: 

“It might not pay off fast.”

Maybe I broke some kind of bro-marketer code by telling the truth, but over-promising just isn’t my jam. 

Here’s why: when you focus on “fast,” you often sacrifice the foundation needed to build a sustainable, long-term business.

And I get it! Quick results can feel like a lifeline in the moment. 

They’re usually brought about by a big push – writing, emailing, creating, and promoting at a frenzied pace. And while this burst might bring a surge of opportunities, it’s exhausting. Burnout follows. Then you’re back to scrambling for the next big push.

So let’s break it down.

The Short-Term Approach

  • Focuses on immediate results through intense effort.
  • Brings temporary client surges but leaves you in a cycle of burnout.
  • Creates inconsistency in income and growth.

The Long-Term Approach

  • Focuses on steady, consistent actions that build over time.
  • Allows you to breathe, recover, and create a solid foundation.
  • Turns client generation into a habit – not a hustle.

Short-term strategies may feel productive, but they often leave you spinning your wheels. 

Long-term strategies aren’t flashy, but they grow a business that’s steady, predictable, and free from chaos.

But what if you don’t have to choose between fast and slow? Is there a way to get the best of both worlds?

Embrace the “Earn While You Learn” Approach
Instead of waiting until everything is perfectly in place, you can begin building your strategy while putting yourself out there in a smart, strategic way. This third option allows you to develop a sustainable business foundation while earning as you go.

You might make a few mistakes along the way (that’s part of the process), but you’ll also start picking up clients and getting paid while you build.

This is how I built my business, and it’s the way I mentor my clients to do the same.

So first things first, ask yourself…

What Are You Sacrificing for “Fast”?
If you’ve ever thought, “This has to pay off fast,” or “I need three clients this month,” ask yourself:

  • What am I sacrificing by focusing only on the short-term?
  • What could I create with a sustainable plan?
  • How would my business feel if I could generate clients consistently—in just a few hours a week?

Build it Sustainably, While Putting Yourself Out there NOW
Imagine this: the effort you put in today continues to pay off for months, even years. No scrambling. No roller coaster. Just steady, confident growth – and the stability you’ve been craving.

What if, as you build that long-term foundation, you’re also gaining clients and getting paid? With the “earn while you learn” approach, you don’t need to wait for perfection to see results. You can build with intention and sustainability, while making an impact today.

With this new perspective, what do you need to put in place to build a business that works for you now and in the long run?

You have your assignment. 😊

P.S. If this resonates but you’re not sure where to start, let’s talk. Schedule a call, and I’ll help you figure it out – no pressure, no strings. 

Who knows? It might be the perfect time to explore a program where I personally guide you through the exact steps to implement the earn-while-you-learn approach – starting with a cohort designed to attract 10 new client leads in 90 days.

Appreciation: Gratitude with its Work Boots On

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On January 26 this year, I sat down to my morning gratitude journal and did something different.

It was my Mom’s birthday, so instead of my usual list of things I’m grateful for, I wrote a short note about my gratitude for her. Then I snapped a picture and texted it to share how much I appreciate her.

Eight days later, she unexpectedly passed away.

To say it was a heartbreaking loss doesn’t begin to do my feelings any justice. At the same time, the joy of knowing that I’d left nothing unsaid is indescribably sweet.

Why do I share this story?

To encourage you to take gratitude one step further into appreciation.

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I think of appreciation as gratitude with its work boots on. It’s moving gratitude from something you feel to something you move into the world.

Move from feeling gratitude for your health to going to the gym in appreciation of it.

Move from feeling gratitude for your friends to scheduling time with them in appreciation of them.

Move from feeling gratitude for your family to expressing it in appreciation of them.

I have tremendous gratitude for the Texas Coaches Coalition Conference, because I attended it less than two months after I lost my Mom. I was a wreck, but was treated with such love and acceptance and gentleness. Again, indescribably sweet.

TCC will always have my gratitude, so I sponsored the 2025 conference to show my appreciation.

I’d love to hear about your own sweet experiences with gratitude and appreciation below.

My End-Of-Year Planning Mistake (+ 2 Others)

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If you’re gearing up for a 4th quarter push, watch this video first. Slow down for a sec (or 7
minutes, to be exact) and make sure you’re not letting these 3 common mistakes derail your
end-of-year goals!

FYI – towards the end of the video, the quality gets a little fuzzy. It’s me, not you. 😊

And here are the links to the two resources I mentioned:

You Don’t Have to Choose Between a Niche & Success

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NOTE: for additional training, join me for my no-fee workshop, Attract Great Clients, with or without a Niche on August 22.  Click here to RSVP.

You Don’t Have to Choose Between a Niche & Success

Ever felt stuck trying to define a niche? You’re told it’s essential for success, but every time you narrow your focus, you end up more confused and frustrated. 

And worried that you’re going to miss out on clients you could truly serve.

You’re not alone. Many coaches face this pressure, especially in the early stages of their business.

But here’s the good news: while a niche can help focus your efforts, it’s not the only path to attracting great clients. In fact, staying open to different types of clients can be just what you need to grow your business without feeling boxed in.

To let go of the niche anxiety and build a thriving coaching practice, here are three simple tips to help you succeed:

  1. Focus on Your Strengths: Instead of narrowing your focus to a specific niche, play to your strengths. What do you naturally excel at? What problems are you passionate about solving? Let your unique skills and interests guide you to the clients who need what you offer.
  1. Build Genuine Relationships: Success in coaching comes from building strong, authentic relationships. Focus on connecting with potential clients, understanding their needs, and offering value. Referrals will follow when people know, like, and trust you.
  1. Pay Attention to Patterns: As you gain experience, you’ll naturally discover which types of clients and projects resonate most with you. Notice the patterns, the similarities between your clients and this will help you focus your client generation efforts as your business evolves.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for success. Trust your instincts, stay open to possibilities, and know that your path to a thriving coaching business is unique – just like you!

Want to get my earn-while-you-learn approach to growth?

Join my free workshop – Attract Great Clients with or without a Niche – and develop the structure that allows you tons of freedom while attracting the variety of clients you crave!

3 Essentials for Coaches to Attract More Clients

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As a coach, you know the value you bring, but figuring out the daily steps to grow your business can be like throwing spaghetti against the wall.

Every coach I’ve worked with is crystal clear about the difference they want to make in the world. But to keep making that difference, you need to STAY in business: which means figuring out how to earn an income doing what you love.

1. Ideal Client Clarity

Stop trying to reach everyone – focus on the ones who value your services enough to pay for it without you having to over-explain or convince them. It’s not about casting the widest net but about speaking directly to those who are looking for exactly what you offer. When you hone in on your ideal clients, your message resonates more, and you naturally attract those who are ready to work with you.

2. Structure & Systems

You’ve probably heard that having systems is crucial, but the real secret? Keep it simple. A good system is easy to follow and focuses on consistent, repeatable actions. Don’t get lost in the noise of countless strategies. Find what works for you and stick with it, so you can concentrate on what matters most: helping your clients.

3. Accountability

Accountability isn’t about being micromanaged; it’s about having someone in your corner, supporting your journey. Like my star client Ben Grimes from BKG Leadership Coaching says, “It’s comforting to know someone’s there to help me stay on track and meet my goals.” Don’t be afraid to seek guidance – it’s a powerful way to ensure you stay focused and motivated.

Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone. Reaching out for support can be incredibly empowering, freeing you to do what you love: making a difference through your coaching.

You can reach out to me here, anytime: mary@simplygetclients.com.

Questions Coaches Should Ask for a Successful 2nd Half of 2024

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You know me… I’m a total geek when it comes to planning, so let’s take a minute to evaluate your year so far and set you up for a strong finish in 2024!

Ready to dive in?

Here are four key questions to unlock your best year yet:

1. What do I WANT for the second half of 2024? Start by reviewing the goals you set at the beginning of the year. Are they still relevant and exciting?

2. What happened in the first half of the year? Reflect on your actions and results. Which strategies worked, and which didn’t? Were there any surprises?

3. What needs to change? Based on your reflections, identify necessary changes. Do your goals need adjustment? Does your action plan need a revamp?

4. What do you need to get rid of? My favorite question! Consider what’s no longer serving you—whether it’s a strategy, a mindset, or a habit. Simplifying your efforts can lead to significant progress.

Take some time to answer these questions honestly. Talk them over with someone in your support system, and don’t hesitate to reach out to me for personalized guidance.

Happy planning!