Afraid To Go All In?

Suzette Mullen, a book coach who helps LGBTQ+ folx and allies raise their voices, write their stories, and become published authors, has been noodling over adding a self-study course beside her mentorship program. Why? Because committing to a whole year feels like a mountain climb for some.

Suzette’s mentorship program is her pride and joy. But Suzette’s got all this killer content just gathering dust. It’s like having a closet full of dazzling outfits with nowhere to go. Should she create a self-study path, making it easier for peeps to dive into their writing dreams without signing away a year?

We dove deep, peeling back the layers. Why add another offering? Turns out, it’s not just about shrinking the commitment scare factor. It’s about spreading that incredible content far and wide, offering a stepping stone for those midway through their journey or just dipping their toes.

Breaking Down Overwhelm

We talked about shaking things up in how Suzette offers her courses. Right now, everything’s tucked behind a big commitment. Feels a bit off, doesn’t it? Keeping groundbreaking content just out of reach for many.

We chewed over breaking down our big journey into bite-sized pieces. Like, should each course be its standalone adventure? And yeah, list building and launching could feel like running a marathon. But, it’s about letting folx choose their path.

Then we wondered, how does this mesh with mentoring? It’s a puzzle, right? From foundational work to pitching your masterpiece, each course has its sparkle. Specially crafted for the queer writing community, we’re talking real, relatable examples.

But ultimately, Suzette and I realized that she needed to trust in her signature course and go all in on selling that instead of breaking it into multiple offers.  

What a relief! 

Focus On Existing Content

Suzette was considering creating a new lead magnet but she actually needed a strategy for her existing one. 

It’s tempting to keep crafting new things instead of focusing on what we already have. We discussed funneling energy into what truly needs it: creating a solid strategy for existing projects, like Suzette’s mentorship program.

She recognized she might get distracted by shiny new projects, especially when launching a book and a new mentorship simultaneously. Instead of building new courses as fillers between major offers, we explored maximizing existing resources, like free content that engages and builds her audience.

A powerful idea emerged: intentionally inviting one person a day from her list to engage deeply with her mentorship program. This disciplined approach keeps all efforts aligned with her main objectives.

This approach shifts energy, showing that discipline and focus can lead to impressive results. It also reiterates the power of focused effort and the pitfalls of dividing attention.

Don’t Be Afraid to Go All In

Sometimes it feels easier to juggle a dozen projects than to throw your heart into just one. But diving deep rather than spreading wide is where the magic happens. Yup, I’m talking about that temptation to sign up for every course under the sun because what if, just what if, focusing on one path means missing out on another? Classic fear of going all in, right?

But, let’s be real, I’ve scribbled down in my own journal a pledge to not enroll in new courses for a year. Why? Because I’ve realized it’s crucial to concentrate on what’s already in play. This is a form of self-love to fully commit and trust yourself enough to find out if the one thing you’re focusing on is the thing.

Take Suzette’s Write Yourself Out mentorship program, for example. She could’ve played it safe with a six-month run, but nope – she went for twelve. Because deep down, Suzette knew that’s what would truly benefit the writers.

And in the next 90 days? It’s not about doing more; it’s about zoning in. I’ll be working on developing those list-building habits, focusing more on creating valuable content, and genuinely engaging with my community. Going all in means laying the groundwork for growth, not chasing new shiny things.

It’s all about crystal-clear invitations too. No beating around the bush. Whether it’s a heartfelt DM or an explicit call to action, clarity wins. So, here’s to being afraid to go all in, but doing it anyway because that’s where the real progress is made.

Dive Deep Without Fear

Focusing wholeheartedly on one path can unlock the potential we never even imagined.

Suzette and I discussed the power of direct invitations. That’s right, reaching out without the fluff, because folx appreciate clarity. It’s about letting them know you’re thinking of them, asking what support they need, and maybe inviting them for a chat if it feels right. Sounds simple? It is, but oh, it’s mighty effective.

We’re not just talking about boosting numbers here; this approach is pure gold for connecting with your tribe on a deeper level. Plus, it’s an awesome way to gather insights and build confidence by doing something that feels a tad scary every day.

Suzette has taken on a 90-day mission to zero in on her Write Yourself Out community, aiming to weave in those lazy list-building habits and sprinkle personal touches with direct invites. Five a week, no less. Challenge accepted, indeed.

Fancy taking a leap yourself? Listen to the entire podcast episode and get ready to be inspired to tackle your very own challenge. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.