How to Develop a Winning Mindset for Business Growth with Debra Russell
Oct 28, 2024Creating Courses with Purpose
Hello, fellow creators! Today, I’m diving into a conversation that resonated deeply with me as I spoke with Debra Russell on my podcast, Scaling Therapy Practice. Debra, an elite business coach and accomplished speaker, shared her story of transformation—one that took her from film production to course creation. If you're thinking about turning your expertise into a course to generate passive income, or maybe even starting a side hustle to make a difference, this post is for you.
From Passion to Profession
One of the most powerful things Debra shared was her path from passion to purpose. Initially, she pursued a life in film, only to be sidelined by health challenges. But this roadblock brought her to something new: business coaching. As Debra put it, “Coaching found me,” and with that discovery, she found her true calling. For those of us who feel a mission to teach and help, it’s a reminder that our unique journeys bring powerful lessons that only we can share.
Creating an online course is one way to channel what you love into a purpose-driven business. Your life experiences have value, and there’s someone out there who needs your exact voice, just as you are. As Debra’s coach once told her, “There will be one person in the room for whom your voice and your unique perspective will be the only way they can hear it.” This simple truth is at the heart of mission-driven course creation.
Finding Strengths and Overcoming Doubts
As course creators, we often question whether we have something unique to offer. Imposter syndrome loves to tell us that our skills aren’t special enough to build into a business. Debra mentioned, “What do I have to say that is different than all the other experts?” This doubt is common, but the answer lies in being yourself and speaking from your experiences. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel; your individuality is what makes your course valuable.
Starting a course means leaning into your strengths. For example, Debra leveraged her experience as a theater performer and workshop leader when she transitioned into coaching. You likely have skills you haven’t considered valuable assets. Ask yourself, "What am I naturally good at? What skills do I use every day that others might benefit from?" When we build on our strengths, our confidence grows, and our course becomes more authentic and effective.
The Power of a Coach
Debra and I both emphasize the importance of having a coach. A coach can give you clarity and direction that’s hard to see on your own. We see this with top athletes; even the best have coaches. As Debra said, “You can’t see what you can’t see.” Coaches can help you fast-track your journey, keeping you accountable and grounded as you build a meaningful course.
There’s no shame in seeking help. For some reason, society has trained us to believe asking for support is a weakness. But in reality, it’s essential for growth. A good coach can provide the outside perspective and knowledge you need to make your course impactful. Find someone who resonates with you and has expertise in your field because the right coach will help you find and amplify your mission.
Managing Time and Finding Balance
Creating a course isn’t just about content; it’s about managing time and staying focused. As Debra and I discussed, time is precious. She shared that at one point, running her course and membership became overwhelming due to her father’s health issues, leading her to adjust her business. When life changes, we need to create balance. “Have a business that runs your life, not a life that runs your business,” I often say. This is where effective time management and boundaries come in.
If you’re feeling stretched thin, take a step back. Ask yourself what tasks can be delegated and what processes can be streamlined. Debra recommends the Pareto Principle, where 80% of your results come from 20% of your efforts. Focus on your core competencies and delegate the rest to a team, which allows you to spend more time on high-impact tasks and less on the small stuff.
Embracing a Productive Mindset
Finally, a mindset that aligns with your goals is key. Debra observed that productivity isn’t just about having the right tools or methods; it’s about believing in the value of what you’re doing. “The system you create works when you trust yourself,” she said. Our beliefs shape our actions, and if we don’t have a mindset that supports our goals, even the best strategies won’t stick.
Think of productivity as a muscle you build with small, consistent efforts. This includes setting aside time for what matters most and protecting it fiercely. Debra suggests creating a system that aligns with your values and goals, not just what sounds productive. With a solid mindset and a structure that serves you, creating a course becomes an empowering experience rather than a draining one.
Your Journey Starts Now
If you’re ready to make a difference, start by focusing on what you already know and love. Course creation is a journey that can provide passive income and fulfill your mission. As Debra and I discussed, it’s about tapping into your passion, finding the right support, and creating a business that complements your life rather than takes it over.
Remember, your voice is uniquely suited to help someone out there. Don’t let imposter syndrome or fear of failure hold you back. Take the first step, and know that there’s someone who needs exactly what you have to offer. Whether you’re a therapist, coach, or anyone on a mission to share your knowledge, go put your mission in motion!
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