Dear Reader,
Have you ever received advice that was hard to hear? If so, then you know: it's no bueno.
But that's exactly what happened this week when I talked with a business coach about my recent course launch. The response was low and the results were not what I had hoped. (Note to self: do not compete with an election.)
She listened carefully to my debrief and then said: you're just not ready for a full-blown course launch.
Ouch.
Me: Not ready? I've been working on this for nearly a year. It's filled with really important and helpful information.
Her: The course may be amazing but you don't have a large enough audience and you haven't spent enough time collecting feedback.
Well, damn. Sometimes we need someone on the outside to point out the obvious. And, though it may sting initially, accepting the truth and adjusting our plans/expectations is ultimately what helps us succeed.
This type of situation is precisely what came to mind when I wrote my latest blog post: Four Hard Truths About Stagnant Nonprofit Organizations. If you're willing to face the music, give it a read, it could be the thing that helps you move forward.
As for me, I've accepted the coach's advice and I've prioritized my audience-building and market testing plans. Those will be the activities that drive my business growth. And although "you need more time" is a tough pill to swallow, it's also the dose of reality I needed to take more action.
What are you willing to accept and move on from this week?
Keep Up the Good Work,
Bernadette
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Nonprofit. Leadership. Community.
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