Hey Reader! 🖤
I hate "success stories". Don’t judge me – I’m not just being a jerk or envious! (Although comparison is definitely a constant struggle for me 😜) But especially in the world of online courses and coaching, I see so many success stories that aren’t just misleading…some are downright dangerous.
Of course, social proof is essential for helping people feel confident about buying. It’s not just about 'proof' – it’s about helping your audience see people like themselves and believe success is possible. And don’t get me wrong – I’m SO DAMN proud of showing off the testimonials and comments I’ve received for my own course and YouTube channel. But I also think that context is important.
I think every success story should come with caveats – or at least some juicy, honest fine print. 🤣
For example: A while ago, I saw a case study from a well-known online coach who was promoting their online program that helps people ditch their corporate jobs and build their dream online business. The “success story” was a woman who’d had a long, high-level career in global corporate marketing - but she hated it. She bought the program in question, and gave it all up to pursue her dream of being a full-time artist. Just a year later, she was doing just that with a beautiful online brand and business.
Now, I’m obviously happy for anyone who takes that kind of action – but let’s be honest: Of course it was easy for her to do in a year! She had decades of experience, likely a big chunk of savings, a great network of influential people, and already knew how to build a brand!
Meanwhile, if you’ve got no savings, no audience, a family to support, and zero time – it’s not going to be a breeze to just 'give it all up' and go all in on something new.
I guess what I'm trying to say (very clumsily) is that what I would really like to see is more honest success stories and examples. With all the details.
Why do I feel strongly about this? Because I know so many people see these carefully curated examples and feel like they’re behind… or not doing a good enough job. When in reality they’re working their butts off and are doing incredible things!
Some people do have to work harder. Whether it’s time, money, energy, confidence, childcare, experience, or just not having the right connections – the playing field isn’t always level. And that’s OK.
You should absolutely go after your dream. You should be bold and take the big swing. But you should also know: most of the stories you see are the outliers. Why do you think those programs with “thousands of students” always show off the same five case studies? (Oooooo the shade is real this week! 🪭) 🤣
Your success story might take longer. You might take a different route. And you might even need to take a couple of detours. But it’s yours.
You don’t need to satisfy anyone else’s definition of success – or their timeline. It's ok to do it your way, and it doesn't make you any less capable or deserving. I know its easy to forget that...but I genuinely, whole-heartedly believe it's true.
You've got this. 🖤
Meaningful Creations
I get such a kick out of finding unusually creative people - artists who find a way of showcasing their unique creative flair in ways that surprise and delight me. This week I wanted to showcase the delicious work of Tableaux Paris.
Tableaux Paris provides culinary artworks. We all know the saying that we eat with our eyes too. The adorable Tom Tarsiguel (founder) has taken that to a whole new level with works of art to nibble on - in the form of buffets, hampers, platters an even picnics composed of cheeses, fine charcuterie, local and seasonal vegetables and fruit, and edible flowers - so perfectly presented that each one reminds me of a Klimt painting!
I do like good food, and I love pretty things....so this is a dream combination for me. It's definitely on my list for the next time I get to Paris!
I wouldn't advise doing it on an empty stomach 😜 - but check out their instagram and get lost in the mesmerizing videos for a few tasty minutes - watching how they arrange things is strangely fascinating!
And tell them I sent ya. 😉
That's it for this week folks. Take care of yourself, and look out for each other - good people need to stick together now more than ever.
Have a fabulous week. 🖤
