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Why You Need To Hire A Coach For Your Online Business

This post was most recently updated on July 31st, 2016

A Coach For Your Online BusinessThere are many good reasons why you need to hire a coach for your online business.

A coach can help you get on the right path, while you may be simply jumping from one path to another.

A coach can help you stay on your path until you get the results you want. Up to now, you may have been hitting one dead end after another.

In short, a coach can help you build a profitable online business, where you have not been successful up to now.

“I Realized I Needed A Coach”

I remember my first day at the gym a long time ago. It is when I first realized why I needed to hire a coach.

There were machines and weights and I sure was intimidated.

I didn’t know what to do or how to work anything.

I tried to “fake it” and sat in one nautilus machine. The one that you sit in and lift your legs up.

So I sat there while looking at the instructions and figured “I can do this.”

The person before me had it set on 50 pounds, though. I had no idea that I had to change the weights.

Imagine me… all of five feet weighing 125 lbs try to move 50 pounds with just my legs.

OUCH!

Yes, you guessed it correctly I injured my knee.

As people in the gym heard my “ouch” they came over to me.

I wanted to sink in a hole.

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I mean, I followed the directions, I had the cutest gym outfit on and even a matching pair of sneakers. (I never wear sneakers but I really thought I could pull this off if I did.}

I hobbled out of the gym to see a doctor. I had a really bad injury and ended up in physical therapy.

I said to myself, “I guess this is why you need to hire a coach.”

When I was well enough to return (hoping that no one would remember me), I hired that coach. ,

You can imagine the rest of the story.

I learned how to use every machine there in the “loop” and also learned how to do free weights.

I did have to give up the free weights, though. Even my coach agreed I was very clumsy at it he he he. I wasn’t concentrating, nor enjoying it.

Hey, you can’t do everything.

“Why You Need To Hire A Coach For Your Online Business”

Now, getting back to why you need to hire a coach for your online business.

What’s Your Goal?

The first thing I’d ask you, as your coach, is what, exactly, do you want to accomplish with your online business?

That’s because your main “why” for hiring a coach is to help you achieve that.

Getting back to my gym story, I wanted to accomplish toning my muscles and strengthening my bone structure. So you see… that first question is the most important one.

When someone comes to me, that is the first question I ask.

Sometimes people know exactly what they want to do, some have a vague idea, some have absolutely no idea other than to achieve some sort of success.

In each case, talking through this step will give you clarity.

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Goals need to be clear. Sometimes we waver and a coach will help you figure out what is really important for you to do and keep you focused on that.

With clarity, you can move forward. But not until you have that clarity.

Everything you’ll do afterwards, is based on it.

How Much Time Will It Take To Reach Your Goal?

The next thing you’ll need to establish is “how much time will you spend?” toward accomplishing your big goal?

This is very important because some people can work their online business full time and some are part time. I recently asked in a post on Facebook this exact question. To my surprise there were more part time people than full time.

Whether you’re spending 50 hours a week or 5, you’ll need to get the most out of each hour you’re working to accomplish your goal.

This is time management, or as I like to call it… “goal management.”

You cannot get anywhere without using your time wisely and productively.

A coach can help you set up a schedule that will have you doing precisely those things that will help you achieve the goal you set for yourself.

This schedule will be designed to get you the best and fastest results, given the time you have allotted.

It won’t be filled with fluff time for Facebook chat and watching funny videos.

It will be focused on getting you the results you’re looking for.

We are all unique and have different situations. A good coach will help you in a way that best fits your goals, life and situations.

Are You Accountable For Your Success?

A good coach will hold you accountable for sticking to your timeline, will stop you when you veer off course, and will motivate you to stick with your plan, one step at a time.

Each and every baby step along your path should be planned to help you accomplish your goals.

Every time you reach a milestone along the way will help you stay motivated.

A good coach will make sure that those milestones are set up in advance to be attainable, and critical to your success.

Even though it can seem like it is difficult at times, when you finish one task, you will feel fulfilled and that will make you eager to go to the next step.

Advancing From Point A to Point B

Having a coach for your online business will help you get from “Point A to Point B.”

Just as important, a coach can help you get there far more quickly than you can ever do on your own.

Special: Get Affordable Coaching (See My Affiliate Bonus Offer Below)

That’s really critical because most people switch directions in their business, get distracted, or even quit when they’re just not seeing measurable results fast enough.

That’s largely because, even though the “answers” to success are “out there” somewhere, it’s going to take you a long time to (a) find them (b) piece them together into a coherent action plan (c) figure out how to implement them (d) properly track your results along the way.

That’s why hardly anyone, ever, achieves big results without the help of a good coach.

Did you ever hear of a great tennis player who never took lessons, never hired a coach?

There’s a million good reasons for that, and this article has just scratched the surface.

I told you my work-out story about how I tried to “do it myself” at the gym by simply reading the instructions on the machine.

If I didn’t get injured, I would still be trying to figure things out and not getting results.

It’s important to understand that there was nothing wrong with the written instructions.

I just didn’t have the understanding to put them all together properly in order to accomplish what I wanted.

My coach helped me buzz through a well-designed routine in just a short time, though.

I started getting the results I wanted because I was doing the right things, day after day, without second guessing myself or trying to re-invent the wheel each step of the way.

And I stopped getting injuries which would only take me out of circulation altogether.

You Need To Hire A Coach For Your Online Business

 

There are many levels of coaching in my business.There are links in this article to my budget coaching.

This is my Top Tier coaching program.

My Blogging Mentorship Program

It’s not important what kind of coaching program best fits your needs.

It’s just important you start getting some professional help to make your business work.

Understand, you need to hire a coach for your blog or other online business to get the results you want.

Now, I ask you to think about this.

How would it benefit you to invest in online coaching?

Will it help you take less time to accomplish your goals?

How does “less time” relate to “more money?” (Hint: Time is money and the more time you try to do things yourself, you are wasting time… which is money.)

What do you think?

Do you know why you need to hire a coach for you online business?

I’d love to hear about it in the comments below.

-Donna

P.S. I also wrote a guest post on this topic that you might also find interesting, so give it a peek.

Donna Merrill
Donna is a well known blogger and creator of "Blogging Magic" - an intensive guide to blogging. "Blogging Magic" is for beginners who are trying to figure out how to bring their blogs to life with tons of visits, comments and social media interaction. It's even for advanced bloggers looking to reach new levels of authority and engagement with their audience.

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78 Responses to Why You Need To Hire A Coach For Your Online Business

  1. Kore Duke
    Twitter:
    September 21, 2015 at 11:49 am #

    Hi Donna,

    Awesome points

    It’s more difficult learning on your own than when someone teaches you.

    Relating to the story you gave about the gym, I used to do sit-up on my own but I wasn’t seeing any result,little did I know that I was doing it the wrong way It was not until I got a gym coach I realized that and in no time I started seeing improvements.

    From your post I’ve learned that having a coach can project one in the right direction. Sometimes we move blindly but until we get a coach, we may never get it right.

    Thanks for sharing this wonderful post.

    Am off to spreading the word.

    Have a great day!

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 28, 2015 at 4:58 pm #

      Hi Kore,

      Just like working out in a gym, our business is kind of the same thing. We do need to bounce off with others how our blog is working and of course marketing strategies.

      Choosing a coach is difficult, but if you know like and trust someone’s work, go for it if you can.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..It’s Not What You Say, But The Way That You Say ItMy Profile

  2. David Merrill 101
    Twitter:
    September 6, 2015 at 9:33 pm #

    You’ve been very successful, Donna, consulting offline as well as coaching online for a long time now.

    You have a natural way of helping people maximize their potential, and I’m always impressed with how much your students and clients benefit from working with you.

    So it’s appropriate that you’d right an article like this one, about why people should hire a coach if they want to stop wasting time and money, are tired of struggling, tripping over themselves and living in confusion while simply trying to get an online business working.

    No doubt that coaching is essential. Your gym story says it all. Everybody knows that if they want to learn something right and fast, it’s far better for someone to sit with them and show them how, rather than trying to figure it out from raw blueprints and general guidelines.

    No doubt that you’re the person to work with, if anybody is looking for high quality, professional and empathetic coaching.

    Great post, too. Fun reading and at the same time, oh so true!
    David Merrill 101 recently posted..Write Blog Posts Your Readers WantMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 7, 2015 at 1:33 pm #

      Hey David,

      Thank you for your endearing words. You have been at my side for decades and watch me like a fox in the woods when I’m chatting away with so many clients.

      You have watched me in action, and have done many coaching sessions along with me. Our products we create are those we do together. As a team, we each have our strong points and weak ones. We know exactly what they are and distribute it well.

      Thanks so much…it is fun answering a comment from you!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  3. Jacs Henderson
    Twitter:
    September 6, 2015 at 4:14 pm #

    Hi Donna!

    your gym story was a great start to this post, it shows how one can make a possible fast exit from your plan by having a big flop (or injury), or if you have the courage to continue on your own you will coast along, possibly with a certain restraint to avoid further failures so never really give it your all!

    Often at several stages you can benefit from the self-confidence boost to take you out of a comfort zone, a directional and accountability focus, and a stability and reality check on progress, purchase and systems… all of which a coach can provide.

    Group coaching, using a community can also be a huge benefit to achieving a particular goal, and when learning new techniques, which can get overwhelming when going it alone.

    I totally like the sound of your new coaching program and your innovative way of delivery, and feel really excited for you!

    ~Jacs
    Jacs Henderson recently posted..10 Secrets For Success And Inner Peace by Dr Wayne DyerMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 7, 2015 at 1:25 pm #

      Hi Jacs,

      When I started writing this post that gym story came to mind. Even though I injured myself back then, I’ll never forget the lesson: Get a coach!

      It ties into almost every aspect of my life. When it comes to business, there are always new and innovative things I need to learn for my business. This is why I always hire someone because I have no time to do it myself. 🙂

      Thanks so much,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  4. Donna Merrill
    Twitter:
    September 6, 2015 at 3:45 pm #

    Hi Kathryn,

    You’ve given some good basic tips for the kinds of things a coach can do to get things rolling with a new client.

    I’ve done that kind of coaching for quite a while now, and I know my clients get a lot of direction and step by step guidance through that format.

    My new coaching program that I mentioned in this post is “email coaching” which is more direct and immediate. That is, my clients can ask me anything anytime without waiting for our next “appointment.” It’s a pretty exciting format, and really makes it so I can coach many more people than I could by sitting on the phone all day, one appointment after another.

    Clients love it because of the immediate and individualized help I can give them.

    There’s so many ways of coaching online.

    Not sure exactly what format you’re thinking about using, but the main thing (of course) is to always be there for you clients. When you do that, your business will grow.

    PS: I’ll be doing some pretty intensive training very soon inside of my “VIP Club” on exactly the topic of starting and running a coaching business online. I’ll report back from time to time on my blog as to some of the highlights of that training. Eventually, I’ll offer it as a paid course. I’m getting excited to get it started!

    -Donna
    Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  5. Kathryn Maclean
    Twitter:
    September 6, 2015 at 2:51 pm #

    Excellent points on coaching Donna.
    I am looking at being a business coach with my first client.

    These are the points I would be focused on that you mentioned.

    I would put you on the right path until you get the results that you want.
    Help you build a profitable online business.

    The first question I would ask: What is your goal?
    What exactly do you want to accomplish with your online business?
    (Talking through this step will give them clarity.)
    Everything you do afterwards is based on it.

    Time – Goal Management
    How much time will you spend accomplishing your big goal?
    As a coach, I can set up a schedule that will have you doing precisely
    those things that will help you achieve the goal you set for yourself.
    No fluff time – watching cat videos on Facebook

    We will be focused on getting you the results that you are after.

    Accountablity
    Each and every baby step along the way should be planned to help you
    accomplish your goals. When you finish one task, you will fill fulfilled and
    that will make you eager to go the next step.

    Investing in a coach is important if you want to reach your goals “faster”
    Learn from someone who has learned what to do and NOT do on their
    road to success 🙂 Exactly what I will tell my client in our first meeting!

    Thanks so much for this article.
    Kathryn Maclean recently posted..ArticlesMy Profile

  6. Andy Lockhart
    Twitter:
    September 6, 2015 at 1:21 pm #

    Donna

    This is a great post and to get true success in anything you do you need a coach. When you were at school or university you had a teacher. Of course if you did sport you had a coach. Coach sounds better… OK moving on, these are people who teach, guide and mentor you but don’t do the work for you. Just like when you go down the gym.

    So why shouldn’t you have one in your business to your point. The idea of the email coaching is great as 1 on 1 stuff can cost a lot of money. I for one, will give it a try.

    Thanks for a great article.
    Andy Lockhart recently posted..Review of InstaquoteMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 3:07 pm #

      Hi Andy,

      With so much “noise” out there about coaching, I did find that email coaching is inexpensive as well as one to one.

      There are many ways people need coaching but for specific areas email coaching does the trick.

      I do 1 to 1 coach for people, but had to find a way to do it so that everyone can afford to.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  7. Sherman Smith September 6, 2015 at 12:51 am #

    Hey Donna,

    One thing I can relate to as far as coaching was when I ran Track and Field in high school and college. I can remember I couldn’t figure out for the life of me why I just wasn’t getting faster.

    My track coach told me it was the way I ran. Now how could I have figure that out?

    I couldn’t! At least at that time.

    So when it comes to online marketing and blogging, A coach is a good thing to have.

    For me it would’ve help because with a coach it wouldn’t cut down some of the time and money I spent with what I know now.

    Don’t you hate it when that happens?

    But yes, you are right about getting a catch. Especially if you’re a newbie! Have a coach guiding you in the right direction will cut down the time and the money to reach your destination.

    Great share Donna and I hope you’re enjoying your Labor Day weekend!
    Sherman Smith recently posted..9 Blog Commenting Rules That Brands You Like A BossMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:59 pm #

      Hi Sherman,

      Great example of running track! We all need someone to look at us and lead us to a better way of doing things.

      Blogging and online marketing is a business strategy. We can waste time trying to read things and do it for free, but is it really what we need?

      When we are ready to get serious about monetizing, we do need a coach in order to interact with us. The coach must be empathetic and understand exactly where you want to go.

      Yes, I’ve been there wasting my time and money long ago without a coach and I hate when that happened, but when I did get the AHA moment and was ready to invest…..it was the best decision I’ve made.

      I’ve cut down so much time as I still continue on new and advanced learning curves with coaches.

      -Donna
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  8. Joan Harrington
    Twitter:
    September 5, 2015 at 5:38 pm #

    Loved this post Donna!! Investing in a coach is important if you want to reach your goals “faster” and learn from someone who has learned what to do and NOT do on their road to success 🙂

    Thanks for the awesome information on why it is so important to invest in yourself by hiring a coach!!
    Joan Harrington recently posted..A Simple Trick To Seduce Your Readers To BuyMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:54 pm #

      Hi Joan,

      Indeed, investing in a coach will help to reach your goals faster. Time is money lol. And so true, we do need t learn from someone who has learned what to do and no to do on the road to their success.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  9. Vincent Mosweta September 5, 2015 at 3:17 pm #

    Well laid out points, can’t even emphasize further on the importance of getting a coach to lead you in your journey.

    Doing it all by yourself can really be stressful, NEVER TRY TO INVENT THE WHEEL, Look for someone who’s done it and get him/her to teach you what works and what doesn’t. As you said Donna, one can hire one or look for one who’s willing to teach you for FREE. I know looking for one who does it for free can be a taunting task, but if you are on a low budget its worth the trial.

    By the way, one thing that i advocate for is that use one coach, having too many will only get you overwhelmed with information.

    Thanks for the great article!
    Vincent Mosweta recently posted..Motivation Monday-It’s Not OVER Until You Win!- Les BrownMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:48 pm #

      Hi Vincent,

      Indeed, never try to re invent the wheel! Be picky and look for someone who has done something you need help to do and hire him/her. Simple as that!

      With so much information on the internet, looking for even one thing can overwhelm you. There are many different ways to learn from low to high price. It is all up to us to be the wise consumer.

      A coach can help for each specific need one has to undertake in business.

      Thanks for stopping by!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  10. Brent Jones
    Twitter:
    September 5, 2015 at 1:18 pm #

    Hi there Donna,

    Great post! I felt compelled to read it because coaching is always a touchy subject for me…

    Too many amateurs that claim to be professional coaches.
    Too many business people that cannot be coached.

    The right business person paired with the right coach can work wonders, though… for all the reasons you mentioned.

    I was quite fortunate. When I quit my job to build my online business, my wife had already been freelancing part-time for about a year. She served as a mentor and teacher for me, sharing what worked well for her and what didn’t.

    The rest of it I figured out on my own.

    But had it not been for my wife’s example, I would have never had the guts to leave the security of my steady pay check. I owe a lot to her.

    And part of what made her such an influential teacher for me was the trust we already had established. I truly believe that for any coaching relationship to be successful, there has to be an established trust there — otherwise it just isn’t going to work.

    Just my thoughts / ramblings on a Saturday afternoon. 🙂

    Enjoy your weekend,

    Brent
    Brent Jones recently posted..Here’s How to Find Bloggers in Your NicheMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:42 pm #

      Hi Brent,

      You hit the most important topic….Trust! If you cannot trust someone to coach you, it is not going to work. Also a good coach has to figure out if a new client is “coachable.” I have turned away some that after an initial conversation, I knew were not a good fit. Nothing wrong with that person, but I the kinda gal that is up front. If I go over my questions and find the person doesn’t have time, or wants to do something later….I’ll tell them, meet up with me when you are ready.

      I know there are a lot of folks out there that do coach and it is all about the KLT factor. If I’m following someone that has done something I want to do myself…there’s my coach!

      I appreciate you sharing how your wife came into this and you followed. Back in the day, my husband started and I followed him. There is nothing better than a couple team!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  11. Renard Moreau
    Twitter:
    September 5, 2015 at 1:15 pm #

    [ Smiles ] It certainly makes a lot of sense to get oneself a coach that specializes in online business if that is the field that we have chosen for ourselves.

    A coach would know things that we are quite oblivious to and would assess our strengths and our weakness and would point out the things that we would have to work at; so we could mater them.
    Renard Moreau recently posted..The Psychological Mindset Of The Patient BloggerMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:37 pm #

      Hi Renard,

      I would never tell anyone anything I haven’t done myself. Hiring a coach a while back was the start of a good business plan for me. But I didn’t give up…I kept on and still do learn. The more we learn the more we can give to others….money well that will follow!

      -Donna
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  12. Mary Sloane
    Twitter:
    September 5, 2015 at 10:27 am #

    Hmmm great thought provoking post. I never really thought about it. I know I am blogging to get traffic I think but for what reason? To build a tribe of like minded folks but I don’t really connect the dots. I probably do need a coach but interestingly don’t even know what sort of coach I need.

    I don’t have any plans to become a “blogger” on any sort of full time basis more interested in team building so I am not sure how they all fit together.

    Thanks for raising the question. Now I’ll have to find the answer!
    Mary Sloane recently posted..What is the KEY to Your Online Success?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:29 pm #

      Hi Mary,

      Blogging is only one way of getting traffic. There are so many other ways, but I do notice that if I put up a WSO on Warrior Forum, people come right to my blog to see the “social proof” of my posts and comments. It’s like a huge business card sometimes lol.

      If you are interested in team building, you must set yourself up as a leader. Get active on your Facebook Pages (as I see you are lol) You have to point everyone to one specific place whereby you can lead the flock…teach them the appropriate way to duplicate what you are doing effectively.

      Did you ever think of creating a membership site? It is another WP site where you can heard the flock of your team there. Do videos…tutorial ones. They can be very short or as complicated as you need. Then have a Q & A at a specific time. Skype or phone…whatever.

      Just make sure that you heard your flock…Teach Teach Teach This way they can all be successful and you too!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  13. Sue Bride
    Twitter:
    September 5, 2015 at 2:28 am #

    I wasted so much time and money in my early marketing efforts. I spent money on generic training that didn’t teach me anything that helped, some of it out of date. I paid for tools I wasn’t at a stage to take advantage of. I joined so many programs which were either scams, or those I didn’t have a clue to go about making money with.

    The amount I spent would easily have covered quite extensive coaching.
    Sue Bride recently posted..A Round-Up Post About Roundup PostsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:16 pm #

      Hi Sue,

      I know exactly what you went through, because I did it myself. Oh those tools that are somewhere on my computer..the outdated information Grrrrr……..

      This is why a coach has to be up to date and be constantly working with other coaches and mentors in order to give the best up to date information to others.

      Yes, when we add up all the stuff we bought, we could hire a one to one coach!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  14. Erika Mohssen-Beyk
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2015 at 11:48 pm #

    Hi Donna ,
    I agree ,the best way to get to a goal is with a coach
    who has the experience needed.
    Trying all kind if other things is often a waste of time
    and money .
    Following the advice of a coach is the best way .
    Thank you
    Erika
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    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:14 pm #

      Hi Erika,

      I think we have all been there following so many things, going round in a circle. Until we reach the point of clarity of what exactly we want to do, we do need help from a coach to be able to work with to clear up the path to reach our set goals.

      A coach will have to have good listening experience in order to probe someone to pull out that exact specific goal with his/her client. That is the beginning……

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  15. Joy Healey
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2015 at 5:59 pm #

    Hi Donna

    What a great analogy.

    I remember first looking at that mysterious machine called a WordPress dashboard and wondering what on earth to do with it – and even worse, no idea what purpose I had in mind.

    I eventually figured most (but by no means all) of it out – but how much further on would I have been if I had had the sense to hire a coach?

    Having said that, at the time coaching programs weren’t as affordable as those that you describe here. That kind of price would have made it an absolute no-brainer!

    Have a great weekend. Joy
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    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:05 pm #

      Hi Joy,

      I do remember those days when coaching was so unaffordable. But now things have changed and we can hire a coach for any kind of specific thing we are working on…or want to achieve.

      I did spend quite a while with my WordPress following a mentor, but didn’t hire a coach. I felt like a sheep lead to slaughter those days because nothing was working.

      It was not until I realized “enough is enough”….yes my first coach was one to one, a guru in the field and was pricey. I learned so much and came out of my shell. I learned more about me…and that is where it all started.

      -Donna
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  16. Ryan Biddulph
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2015 at 3:34 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    The simplest way to grow your online business is to follow the advice of someone who knows how to grow online businesses. Many of my breakthroughs occurred through mentoring and most struggles were rooted in not following advice from coaches or pros. I dig your weight room analogy too; way back in the day, before I was in the Iron Game, I asked the most jacked guys for advice to cut your bodybuilding learning curve.

    Smart advice!

    Ryan
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    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 2:01 pm #

      Hi Ryan,

      It sure is the best way to grow your business to ask someone, especially if you know like and trust them for advice. They may do it for a fee and that’s OK. I paid for most of my trainings and coaches from those I knew. Not some random person that was just trying to get affiliates lol.

      Still, I do to this day and will probably keep on doing, is get coaching so I can sharpen my skills. Then I can pass it on to others.

      He He … I don’t pump iron, but I do have to get back to the gym lol.

      -Donna
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  17. BG Jenkins
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2015 at 11:47 am #

    Hi Donna, What a great analogy. We can all relate to this. We do need to understand how to use the equipment to benefit the most from it, whether at the gym, or in our business. Coaching is a much needed commodity for success… it cuts timelines, frustrations and directs us down the track at the needed pace. Thanks so much. Great post.
    BG Jenkins recently posted..Write On! You Are Right On Track!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 6, 2015 at 1:50 pm #

      Hi BG,

      Glad you liked the analogy and this post! No matter what we want to achieve in life, we sure do need some kind of coaching.

      In the IM world, things come at us so fast, once we master something, a new trend comes along….Phew… It can easily get us into overwhelm.

      Being clear in what we want to do and have a business plan is time to get some coaching!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  18. Donna Merrill
    Twitter:
    September 4, 2015 at 10:41 am #

    Hi Dana,

    Thank you for sharing your experience of being a trainer and also writing that book to prevent injuries. Too many people go about things the wrong way at the gym, as I did lol. But now that I know better, I see it all the time…accidents just waiting to happen.

    To choose a coach in business, we need to be a good fit. I know that if someone comes to me to learn all kinds of technical stuff, it is not what I do, so I suggest others I know well in the industry for them to go to.

    But when I do have a client, I start with their mindset. It is where it all begins. Each person is on a different journey and has their own unique qualities. It is up to a coach to recognize that. To pull out what a person can do well and enjoy the ride!

    But the coach him or herself needs to have the confidence and awareness of others. They live for others because that’s the most important thing.

    Thanks for your wonderful input,

    -Donna
    Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  19. Dana
    Twitter:
    September 3, 2015 at 8:55 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I have to chime in and agree with the other comments about your example of your fitness program. Great analogy.

    As a personal trainer, I understand the value of having someone in your corner to help you – whether it’s to reach a goal, or reflect you back to you…if that makes sense. (I’m also the author of an exercise safety book…and what you had to say about minimizing injury by learning how to do something the right way really hit the nail on the head.)

    I think it has to do with the fact that our own thoughts get in the way sometimes. Without meaning to…it’s easy for so many of us to thwart our own efforts because of the level of debris that clouds our judgment in regard to making clear decisions – and taking action. I admitted to such weakened thoughts in your post on Sylviane’s blog – so I call myself out as well.

    It’s tough to be objective with oneself. Having a coach, a well-versed one with a sense of awareness of the human condition (which you seem to encompass) can be such an asset.

    This post is a great reminder of why at times, going it alone isn’t necessarily the best course of action.
    Dana recently posted..A Tribute to A Man Who Has Inspired Me – Dr. Wayne DyerMy Profile

  20. Chery Schmidt
    Twitter:
    September 3, 2015 at 10:32 am #

    Good Morning Time Donna, Loved this post my friend! I agree we all need to have a coach, OH SO IMPORTANT and know you are an Awesome Coach just by your first question to your students..

    What’s Your Goal? So many people skip this step!! I know I did and wasted 16 months, because I didn’t have any idea what I wanted!

    You do need to figure out what it is you want to accomplish with your online business and a good coach with help you with this and help to keep you accountable for reaching it as well.

    Thank You For All You Do. Great way to start my day.
    Have an Amazing One Too
    Chery :))
    Chery Schmidt recently posted..Can A Success Mindset Help You Make Money Online?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 3, 2015 at 11:42 am #

      Hi Chery,

      Thanks for bringing up that important point of you wasting 16 months because you didn’t know what you wanted. It happens to many!

      The very first question is What’s your Goal? This way a coach can get inside that person’s head. Sometimes during a session with a client their goal is one thing but by the end of the session, an AHA moment comes by me poking them by asking “do you see yourself waking up in the morning and doing xyz every day?” Loads of questions like that. And the client realizes…Oh…my goal really isn’t that….that is what people told me. I really want to do x. But how can I monetize? And we go on from there.

      And yes, accountability is a must. When I have an initial consultation I am up front and give them a timeline that they must act upon. If they don’t we explore those “excuses” lol. I can be hard nosed sometimes he he he.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  21. Andrew
    Twitter:
    September 3, 2015 at 7:40 am #

    Hey Donna,

    Great post here.

    Interestingly enough, I recently read a post from someone that said why you should’t use a coach. And there were some interesting points in that post as well.

    The closest thing I’ve had to a coach is Jon Morrow and the mentorship program he has and some other stuff he has. And that has worked out well for me because everyone in the community wants to succeed to we all hold each other accountable. We all motivate each other.

    Like you said, an online coach is the same as a coach you would get for exercise. Although a coach is not for everyone, there’s certainly nothing wrong with it. We all need help (or a fresh set of eyes) every now and then — and that’s where coaching or mentorship can come into play.

    Great job.

    – Andrew
    Andrew recently posted..7 Actionable Steps That Will Increase Your Online Presence ImmediatelyMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 3, 2015 at 11:37 am #

      Hi Andrew,

      You can’t go wrong with John Morrow’s mentorship! He has helped so many people and the way he does it works very well. You are in good hands my friend.

      That IS a form of coaching…having a group to be accountable. Many people I know that have him as a mentor have made lots of strides in their business.

      For me, it was the one on one (very expensive coaching) that made my breakthrough. From there, many other courses. Sometimes there is a particular thing I want to focus on…i.e. I can use the example of building a list. What worked last year doesn’t work now in the marketing trends because of new technology. So I have to go yet on another learning curve to do so.

      When I opt into a coaching or mentoring program, I do take immediate action. That is what is so important.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  22. Corina Ramos
    Twitter:
    September 3, 2015 at 12:46 am #

    Hi Donna,

    I agree with you 100%…we all need a coach to guide us in our online business. I know I would have been lost and probably still struggling to grow my blog had it not been for my mentors and coach.

    In my personal experience my coach as been my rock. Not only did she help me put my business plan together and execute it but she motivates me and encourages me to step outside of my comfort zone and take chances on new projects I’d otherwise be afraid to try.

    I agree with what Monna said in her comment. There is no shame in asking for help.

    Great post Donna, as usual my dear! Oh, and I’m intimidated by those machines at the gym too. 🙂

    Hope you’re having a great week!

    Cori
    Corina Ramos recently posted..Why You Need Travel Insurance For Hassle Free TravelsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 3, 2015 at 11:32 am #

      Hi Cori,

      Thanks so much for sharing your experience here. It is so helpful to this post. Indeed, a coach is like your rock. And pushing you outside your box is a must!

      I remember the first coach I hired and he pushed me to limits I never knew I could handle. But I’m sure glad he did because I would have never finished my first product.

      Since then, I enjoy being a product creator and indeed still have coaches to help me with each and every one. Maybe a sales page is not doing the trick….I can ask my coach to review it and together we tweak it. Stuff like that.

      When I think of money spent on my journey of coaching, it sure is worth it. Numbers don’t lie and the ROI worked so well.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  23. Shann
    Twitter:
    September 2, 2015 at 11:52 pm #

    Great post. As you know, I am new to blogging, so even getting a coach is new information to me. I really appreciate all your advice. Your posts are really helpful.
    Shann recently posted..Joining a GymMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 3, 2015 at 11:28 am #

      Hi Shann,

      Yes, I know you are a new blogger and you can learn a lot from other blogs like mine and also check out the people who are on this comment section.

      Their blogs are chock full of information. It is difficult in the beginning, and hiring a coach, or a coaching program to get you started is a good idea. Clarity on what your goals are is something that new bloggers find difficult.

      So keep on reading!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  24. Linda Schrier
    Twitter:
    September 2, 2015 at 10:36 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Loved your post on coaching and how important it is to us. I took a course from you called “Blogging Magic” and it was wonderful.

    I made a decision a couple of months ago to go into Don Purdum’s coaching course “Do You Know What business You’re Really in” and he is incredible. I still have a lot of work to do on Clarity with him.

    I also got myself a coach to help me with blogging and technical issues and he is great. Getting coaching is the best investment I have made in my life. If you’re having issues that are holding you back, get help!

    In today’s world the internet is changing constantly and if you are a newbie and get distracted by so many things. Coaching is an absolute must. I have grown so much through coaching and would highly recommend it to anyone struggling.

    Thank you for sharing Donna and you have an awesome rest of the week!

    Linda
    Linda Schrier recently posted..Guide to Guest BloggingMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 3, 2015 at 11:26 am #

      Hi Linda,

      Thanks so much for your feedback on my “Blogging Magic” product. Good to know how it helped you. Now working with Don is your next step to clarity. You sure are on the right track.

      It is so important to get coaching in order to get your business going from the basics to the latest trends in marketing. Yes, the internet is changing constantly!

      It is so difficult for newbies, that’s why I did create that course, and have been creating products on specifics. I’ve been putting them up as WSO’s on Warrior and it has been a fun journey meeting new people.

      Coaching is a must and to be a coach in this business, we need constant coaching ourselves to be up to date to share with our clients.

      Thanks again!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  25. ikechi
    Twitter:
    September 2, 2015 at 10:29 pm #

    Hi Donna

    Just by reading your blog posts, I have been able to gain a lot of what it takes to create a success online business.

    So to speed the process, You are absolutely right that one needs a coach. Yes! A coach will make you avoid starting things from scratch and put you in the right direction.

    Loved this post and I definitely will need your services as soon as I can gather the resources.

    Thanks for sharing.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 3, 2015 at 11:15 am #

      Hi Ikechi,

      Thanks so much for the great compliment. This means I’m doing my blogging job well. It is so great to get feedback!

      My wheels are spinning lately to do something with a way lower price point. David and I are creating something so that many can afford.

      I read feedback so much and understand that many people cannot afford any type of coaching. So stay tuned….lol.

      We want to do some mini courses in the near future.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  26. Brenda Lee
    Twitter:
    September 2, 2015 at 5:52 pm #

    Hi Donna!

    This is a really awesome post! I could probably use some coaching assistance in the near future. Matter of fact, I need to pick your brain sometime about something you mentioned to me not to long ago. So I’ll have to save up my weekly allowance until I can save up enough to afford a coach. Hopefully that will give me the knowledge to proceed in my journey to work at home.

    Passing this along girly!
    Brenda Lee recently posted..Eat More Blueberries for Brain PowerMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 3, 2015 at 11:12 am #

      Hi Brenda,

      You know you can pick my brain my friend…just PM me and we can chat if you have a question.

      I know you are a part time blogger and have that new fur baby to take care of. There is a lot going on.

      In a recent Facebook question I put up I asked Are you a full time blogger or a Part time Blogger?
      To my surprise, there were more part time people than ever!

      It is all a matter of getting clear about what you want to do to monetize your blog and sticking to one thing.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  27. Jasper Oldersom
    Twitter:
    September 2, 2015 at 6:36 am #

    Hi Donna,

    I totally agree with you. Your gym story made it so clear. It’s so true. At my gym everyone gets a coach for the first few times to introduce them to all the equipment based on their goals. It costs expensive, but you dont have to go it alone.

    Just like you I had that thought floating through my mind “I need a coach”. It needs to feel good if I work with someone though, which is why I decided to hire Adrienne. We’ve been talking a lot through email and I feel very comfortable with her.

    I’m sure I will be working with multiple coaches in the upcoming years, but I’m glad she’ll be my first coach.

    Yesterday we had our call to see if we’re a good fit, and I’m having my first real session tomorrow. For anyone who doesn’t want one-on-one coaching your offer seems like an outstanding deal!

    One thing is for sure, you know how to make a point 😉

    Have a good one Donna!

    – Jasper
    Jasper Oldersom recently posted..How To Communicate Effectively and Become Super Likable as a BloggerMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 2, 2015 at 12:53 pm #

      Hi Jasper,

      My gym story came to mind to illustrate how important coaching is needed. My gosh, I had an knee injury because of my Pride..hmmm…lesson learned the hard way.

      In business, we do need coaching. I coach the newbie bloggers to the advanced internet marketers and in order to do so I am the tool and it aways needs to be sharp. So I get continual coaching. It only makes sense!

      I am so happy to know that you are coaching with my BFF Adrienne. You are in good hands because not only does she have the knowledge, but more importantly Adrienne knows how to listen and she has the biggest heart I know.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  28. Anant patel
    Twitter:
    September 2, 2015 at 3:31 am #

    Hey Donna,

    Great post mate! I would say that every person need coach or trainer or expert for different purpose in differen business, No one is perfect in all activety. We need trainer, coach or expert for our business so that we can discuss about our goals and after that they recommended strategy from their personal experience.

    Have you ever seen any soccer or rugby team without coach? No right! Our online business is same like that. As we know that online business industry growing and become toughest day by day, so if you want to run your online business successfully then you need to hire coach

    Thanks for sharin worthful and great concept!!
    Anant patel recently posted..How To Access Banned Social Media Websites or Apps In Mobile or PCMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 2, 2015 at 12:48 pm #

      Hi Anant,

      Our online business is like a sport team…constantly needing coaching and getting better and better at it.

      As I do coach, it is my own responsibility to be coached constantly. Business wise, and also mind/body/spirit. To me, it is all connected. One has to know themselves fully and be accountable to make sure that we are up to date on the trends of IM .

      It is a fast growing place out here in internet land, and taking responsibility to care for others we do need to keep on learning.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  29. Susan cooper
    Twitter:
    September 1, 2015 at 4:49 pm #

    Hi Donna, you are so right! Boy let me tell you. I don’t know where my blog would be today with out coaches, mentors, assistants, web gurus and advice from wonderful bloggers like you. New bloggers especially need all the help they can get. I would have faded from the scene a long time ago I bet without help. 🙂
    Susan cooper recently posted..Crockpot Dulce de Leche: #RecipeMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 2, 2015 at 12:45 pm #

      Hi Susan,

      Indeed, new bloggers need all the help they can get. If I didn’t go out and get coaching, mentors and all the learning curves I wouldn’t be writing right now lol.

      I do find that blogging is a journey and as we grow, we can help others grow with us by sharing as much information as we can…but not give away the farm lol….

      Thanks so much Susan,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  30. Atish Ranjan
    Twitter:
    September 1, 2015 at 4:39 pm #

    Hey Donna,

    Great post indeed!

    A coach is indeed required to save time and get most out of your efforts. When you do hit and trial, it takes lot of time to learn, and even you face loses as well.

    A coach can guide you through the right path and make you put your effort on those things that can be profitable for you.

    When I started, I didn’t have a coach as I didn’t have any budget for it. That is why It took me a year to completely understand blogging and other technical stuff.

    Thanks for writing such a nice Post, Donna.
    Atish Ranjan recently posted..Citrio – A fresh new Web Browser that comes with great featuresMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 2, 2015 at 12:43 pm #

      Hi Atish,

      What a great point you have made: when you started and didn’t have a budget for a coach or mentorship it took you a year to understand blogging and technical stuff.

      This is so common especially for new bloggers that have now idea what direction they really want to go in. I find it all the time when new bloggers come to me for coaching. They sure need clarity and some hand holding in order to find what exactly it is they want to do and also to monetize their blogs from day one.

      I did that the hard way lol. I wasn’t monetizing so well when I first started with a network program I was in. And yes it took me a while too to figure out what direction I was going. So with that said, I couldn’t bear a person going through what I did.

      Time is money. Any type of coaching will get you to your goals much faster.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  31. Sylviane Nuccio
    Twitter:
    September 1, 2015 at 1:17 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I really like your example of the gym. At the gym people hire a personal trainer (a coach) so not only they learn how to do things right, but also learn how to not hurt themselves.

    Well, that could be applied to any type of coaching.

    I’ve been coaching a client for the past two years now and he’s just reached out to me through email yesterday, because he’s running into issues again, and the first person he thinks of in such case, it’s me 🙂 he’s coach.

    After 2 years, basically what I do is answer his questions with some questions of mine, to make him think and to train him to ask those questions himself. Once he knows how to do this on his own, he might not need me anymore, but as long as he doesn’t, I think he does need me.

    So, this is to show your readers that, yes, a coach is a very good thing to have.

    One word of caution though, make sure you hire the right coach for YOU and for your needs, because coaches are not one fit all garments. But if you do your shopping around right, you should be glad you hired a coach.

    Great stuff 🙂 and sharing.
    Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..Why You Should Bend But Not Break With Your Business StrategiesMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 1, 2015 at 2:30 pm #

      Hi Sylviane,

      Thanks for that example of the person you have been coaching. Yes..many will run into a brick wall as they go on their journey and will come back because they know like and trust you.

      Also indeed heed that word of caution…don’t choose a coach because it is something everyone is talking about. We have to know who we can trust and make sure it is a good fit.

      The same goes with a coach. I have had a person or two who came to me for coaching and I knew right away they weren’t a good fit for me. They were headstrong to make fast cash. I just simply told them there was no such thing and I couldn’t work with them. 🙂

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  32. Lawrence Bousquet
    Twitter:
    September 1, 2015 at 7:39 am #

    Perfect explanation of why a coach is needed. A coach will help you out of those times of self doubt you are unable to. With so much information coming at us each and every day it is hard to be an expert or even a jack of all trades. Good advice from a coach on how to manage your time and what you time needs to be used on can make a huge difference.
    Lawrence Bousquet recently posted..Facebook Automation TipMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 1, 2015 at 2:26 pm #

      Hi Lawrence,

      We are so overwhelmed with information it is crazy. The first step before hiring a coach or joining a coaching program is to be clear on your goals …. if you can be lol.

      Time is a huge factor. Many people are here part time and a different approach must be taken. It all depends on the individual.

      Constant coaching and/or mentoring is a must. I’m still learning and will never stop. I cannot afford to otherwise I’ll be stagnant and so will my clients. The internet world is always changing and one must take responsibility if they want to have a lucrative business.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  33. Ravi Chahar
    Twitter:
    September 1, 2015 at 3:31 am #

    Hi Donna,

    I like the story of going to a gym. You are right most of the time people try to fake their work but they forget that its not beneficial. As you had injured your knee that time. Similarly people harm themselves. Hiring a coach for your online business is a good step to take if you want to build your business at the next level.

    Most of people don’t know what they want? Whats their aim? For that they need a coach who can guide them to approach towards their goal.

    Thanks for such an informative post.
    Have a great week ahead.:)
    ~Ravi
    Ravi Chahar recently posted..How To Add An Add-on Domain In cPanel At Your Web Host?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 1, 2015 at 2:22 pm #

      Hi Ravi,

      We all learn from our mistakes lol. Hiring a coach can fix a problem quicker than anything.

      I like what you have brought up whereby most people don’t even know what they want. That is the first step in coaching. To bring clarity when talking to someone and pulling out what they strongly desire, have passion to do and not tire of.

      Then we can guide them toward their goal.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  34. Monna Ellithorpe
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 8:16 pm #

    Hi Donna,
    Great post as always and I totally agree with you. Sorry that you hurt your knee but now we know we should read directions and ask for help. There is no shame in asking for help.

    I think hiring a coach is one of the best ideas ever. I never used to think that way but the more time I spend online the more I realize how important a coach is for many reasons.

    You will hear me knocking on your door again very soon. LOL
    Monna Ellithorpe recently posted..Strategies For Branding YourselfMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 1, 2015 at 10:34 am #

      Hi Monna,

      That is something I think that happens to all of us….the more time we spend online, the more we realize we need a coach. There are many different kinds of coaching from one on one to something like Leon is offering.

      It all depends on what you choose to be doing. Sometimes people get so confused, they need that clarity on exactly where their goals lie. I find that with many people that I do coach. After a while in the initial consultation, what they thought was a direction they were going, they then realize it is another. lol.

      It also happened to me when I first hired a coach. I was going into one niche then realized that the niche I’m in now was the way to go. A good coach listens and can give good suggestions to pull out what a person is really looking for.

      -Donna

      P.S. Knock on my door anytime lol
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  35. Stella Chiu
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 6:10 pm #

    Hi, Donna

    We got the point from your gym story: that bruise and damage appeared without Coach.The free advice are waste time. I am thinking about to get coach. Will investigate Leon’s program and go from there.

    -stella
    Stella Chiu recently posted..Girls, Before You Will Say “I Do”My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      September 1, 2015 at 10:30 am #

      Hi Stella,

      The best advice I can give you when investigating a coach is to know clearly what you want to do before you hire one. Know your goals and where you want to be, take into consideration the time you have to do the work needed to be accountable.

      I do love Leon’s program because it keeps me on my toes lol. After many coaches, I always need more in order to be teaching others.

      Have a wonderful week,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  36. Mark
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 2:57 pm #

    Thanks for sharing such an excellent post Donna!

    And even though your gym story wasn’t meant to necessarily be funny, I
    can certainly relate to it on so many different levels!LOL!

    Because I definitely know the feeling of being completely overwhelmed and
    having no clue how to move forward, with regards to a certain project
    and or subject!

    In fact, I can just picture uou in that gym with your snazzy looking sneakers, trying in vain to
    really give this workout thing a go!LOl!

    Only to accidentally hurt yourself!

    Boy if I had a dollar for every “Do It Yourself” project
    I attempted and like you shared, the instructions were fine!

    It’s just “Mr. Clueless” had absolutely no idea how to actually connect
    the dots!!LOL!

    And of course, the next results were, “I didn’t really want to complete and or succeed
    at project X anyway!” So I’m moving on!LOL!

    Thanks for offering and sharing some excellent real world advice!!Hopefully your
    words of wisdom will be heeded!
    Mark recently posted..Why Sometimes Real Opportunity Is Pleasantly Disguised As Just Plain Old Crazy!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 31, 2015 at 3:56 pm #

      Hi Mark,

      I always think of my gym story when I think of coaching. I had the do it yourself approach and that sure didn’t work. But what a good lesson learned.

      Same as blogging…I had some sort of mentorship coming in, but not business savvy to connect with it.

      I’m like a toddler that has to fall and skin my knee in order to run. he he he

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  37. Mi Muba
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 1:52 pm #

    Hi Donna

    Very thoughtful post with a lot of information and sound reasoning to fully guide online businesspersons to adopt a specific course of action according their business objectives that definitely vary from business to business.

    There is another term relates to it as well and is often used in economics. Yes it is the concept of opportunity cost. Doing or learning for free may sound attractive especially when someone achieves his objective of doing or learning but we ignore the opportunity cost factor here and calculate everything in terms of money.

    I once read somewhere the case study of two bloggers out of whom one learn blogging fully in one year by not paying a dime to anyone while the other one learn blogging formally with the help of a coach in three months time.

    The end result is the one who learnt it for free has then (at the time of my reading that post) had 1500 subscribers on his blog while the one who learnt from a coach had 3500 subscribers so the difference is of 2000 subscribers if we examine the two options on the basis of simply subscribers.

    Serious blogging is blogging for money or blogging for supporting an already establishing or growing business. Hobby blogging do have its own value but ultimately it also converts into serious blogging.

    The situations you mentioned for whom it is wiser to hire a coach directly relate to practical business world and it also reflects your in-depth research in to the topic.

    Thanks a lot for sharing the post on one of the important topics related to online business development.

    Have a great week ahead.
    Mi Muba recently posted..Should you learn blogging formally or do it yourself?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 31, 2015 at 3:15 pm #

      Hi Mi Muba,

      I never heard the term “opportunity cost” but it pretty much summarizes the essence of my article, here.

      Nothing is free. As you point out in your example, the “free” blog builder was not able to get the results she/he could have gotten with a coach leading the way. So what looks like “free” ends up costing you lots of money in terms of time, but also in terms of earning far less profit than you could if you were doing things the best way possible.

      And don’t forget the money you’ll probably have to spend buying courses that don’t really address your specific situation, and software/plugins/services that really aren’t even necessary.

      Big corporations always hire consultants because they know it’s cost effective and produces results.

      Having your own online coach for your internet business is like hiring a private consultant.

      The worst thing that happens when to folks who try to “go it alone’ or “do it for free” is that so many of them simply get lost in the weeds and either quit, or resign themselves to working hard for very little profit.

      They just give up on their big dreams over time.

      It’s really too bad because so often, just a few tweaks in their business can make a huge difference in their results, and therefore, in their lives.

      I think of myself as being in the business of improving peoples’ lives, and I think I do that best as a personal coach.

      Thanks so much for the great illustration of how coaching can make such a big difference.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  38. Marquita Herald
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 1:38 pm #

    Super advice Donna! I’ve been blessed to have had several amazing coaches and mentors in my life and a couple that continue to influence me to this day. I still laugh at times about how lost I was when I set up my first blog! Like most newbies I bumped around in the dark trying to make a go of it with free advice but wasted so much time until I finally bit the bullet and found a good coach. Thanks for all you do to open the way to success for people looking to build an online business!
    Marquita Herald recently posted..Are You Living Your Truth?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 31, 2015 at 2:56 pm #

      Hi Marquita,

      It is kind of funny how we bumped around in the dark when we first started blogging. But as soon as we learned to hire a coach, mentors and such, we sure did make a go of it.

      We do go back a long time lol. I’ve seen you grow in leaps and bounds and I’m sure you had wonderful mentors and coaches along the way to achieve your success!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  39. Don Purdum
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 1:36 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I came to the conclusion eight years ago that I didn’t know what I didn’t know and I needed help figuring it all out. So, I hired an experienced business coach.

    I have to tell you that it was more than my monthly mortgage for the first 2 years but the payoff was absolutely HUGE!

    There is no way I could have learned some of the business things I needed to know without it.

    Today I see so many businesses struggling and fighting. They are blaming the economy, the government, or maybe their competition.

    They are looking everywhere but in the mirror.

    My premise is that people are wandering and failing because they don’t have the necessary clarity to keep them focused.

    When we chase strategies and cash without clarity we end up in a bad place every single time! It’s getting the cart before the horse to be frank and that never turns out well.

    I loved working with Adrienne and I’m excited to see the changes she initially has made but there is more to come for her.

    Great post Donna!!! I love your practical, insightful approach.

    Have a great week.

    ~ Don Purdum
    Don Purdum recently posted..How to Network Online and Efficiently Grow Your BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 31, 2015 at 2:41 pm #

      Hi Don,

      Hiring your business coach was one of the best decisions you must have ever made. It is an investment for business.

      I was floundering myself until I got serious and hired my one to one coach and so did David…both in different aspects of the business. We were clear of what we wanted to do together and if it wasn’t for our investment, we would still be floundering.

      I find that constant coaching is necessary if one wants to coach others. Things change so rapidly online, and we need to know the current trends, what is working and what is not.

      So true people will fail if they don’t have clarity. One needs a strong business plan to follow and be persistent on it.

      Thanks Don for your insightful comment.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  40. Barrie Evans
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 1:01 pm #

    Hi Donna,
    I have been in the fortunate position of having several mentors. Each one has given me great insight, but the common denominators with each one is highlighted in your post. They DO hold you accountable, but they don’t DO the work for you, which is the impression some people get sadly.
    Whatever your needs, whether it’s fitness, online or offline business or anything else, a coach will help you to move forward.
    Barrie Evans recently posted..Stop Complaining And Take Full Responsibility.My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      August 31, 2015 at 4:00 pm #

      Hi Barrie,

      You sure brought up a good topic here. Mentors and coaches will hold you accountable. But it is up to us to DO THE WORK!

      Unfortunately some people do have the impression that all they have to do is hire someone and it will magically be done. It’s work…It’s hard work. And what I like best is that it pushes us to limits beyond we ever expected.

      Thanks so much!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  41. Donna Merrill
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 11:33 am #

    Hi Adrienne,

    I know your journey very well. I do remember when you made that leap and created your product. You couldn’t do it alone. The coaching program you were in changed the entire business model for you and sure made you an authority when you rolled out with your product that helped so many people.

    Then further on your journey you felt like there was something more you needed to do and had Don work with you. I’ve seen how these changes you have made increased the level of your direction and also have given you the ability to put into action exactly what you wanted.

    The way I see it is like any professional. A doctor has to keep up with medical journals. Also the latest techniques in medicine. So why not the small solopreneur?

    As a coach, we need to keep up with coaching in order to give the best value we ever can give to others.

    As I coach people, I realize there are many different ways one can afford it. One to one, the VIP Club I have, and others. I like to have things affordable so everyone can get a chance.

    Leon does have so much to offer, and I wouldn’t recommend it if I wasn’t doing it myself.

    As I always say: “We are the tool and we have to keep it sharp”

    Thanks so much for your comment.

    -Donna
    Donna Merrill recently posted..7 Great Blog Posts August 2015My Profile

  42. Adrienne
    Twitter:
    August 31, 2015 at 11:12 am #

    Good morning Donna and a happy new week to you my dear.

    I love this post and I can relate to this as well.

    Although I didn’t exactly have a one-on-one coach when I had my first breakthrough I was part of a monthly membership course where they dripped information to us each month. We also had a forum where we could ask for help. I also got in good with one of the ladies that shot the videos for the course so she was extremely helpful as well. The key takeaway from this though is that I would NOT be where I am today I honestly believe had I not invested in that monthly training and gotten me on the right track.

    As you also know, I recently worked with Don Purdum because I just wasn’t where I wanted to be with my audience. I knew what I wanted but was struggling with moving in that direction mainly due to not wanting to let my community down. I was fighting with myself over this although my gut was telling me what to do. I needed his input, his direction and he really gave me some wakeup calls that headed me in the right direction. I would not have done that on my own either.

    We’re not all great in all areas of building our business or moving forward with our blogs. There are things that we might “think” will work but find out that we’re not moving forward like we had hoped. Hiring a coach or getting into some type of membership course is what we need to do in order to further our education and get us to where we want to be.

    I’m so sorry you hurt yourself when you walked into the gym but you’re not alone in your thinking. We all want to be able to figure things out on our own. Pat ourselves on the back that we were able to “figure this out” but there are just some things we need to ask for help with and who wants to injure themselves or take them years longer to accomplish something.

    Great share and sounds like you and Leon have a lot to offer. I hope you have a lot of takers on this Donna.

    Awesome post my dear and good luck to you both. Have a wonderful day and a terrific new week.

    ~Adrienne
    Adrienne recently posted..Magical Monday: Irresistible Content, Gifyt, Influencer, CTA SkinMy Profile

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