Think you need to know everything to be a great coach? Think again!
This post breaks down the biggest myth keeping new coaches stuck—and why your experience right now is exactly what your dream clients need.
Ever feel like you’re not qualified enough to be a coach? Maybe you think you need more experience, another certification or to know everything before you can help someone else.
Here’s the truth: You don’t.
And believing that you do is one of the biggest things holding talented, heart-centered coaches back from actually coaching.
The Myth That’s Keeping You Stuck
There’s a common misconception that in order to be a great coach, you have to be the best in the world at what you do. That only people with years of experience, fancy degrees and a long list of accolades are qualified to help others.
And you know who’s really pushing this idea? Many of the people selling high-ticket certification programs.
Now, don’t get me wrong — education is valuable and certain industries do require certifications. But if you’re holding yourself back from stepping into coaching because you think you need to know it all, I’m here to tell you: that’s just not true.
You Just Need To Be A Few Steps Ahead
The reality is that every person, at every stage of life and business, can benefit from a coach who is just a few steps ahead of them.
Think about it.
Would a brand-new online business owner—who doesn’t yet have an email list, an audience or any marketing experience — benefit from a coach who specialises in seven-figure launches? Probably not.
That coach’s strategies are designed for people who already have a foundation in place. Instead, that beginner business owner needs someone like you—someone who just figured out how to grow an audience, how to set up an email list, or how to create a simple sales funnel. Someone who can meet them where they are and help them move forward, step by step.
There’s a saying: Even a grade-schooler is an expert to a toddler.
Your dream clients are looking for you — someone who gets what they’re going through right now because you just went through it yourself.
The Power Of Shared Experience
One of the biggest advantages of being a great coach — a coach who isn’t too far ahead is that you remember exactly what it felt like to be where your client is now.
Top-level coaches — while incredibly skilled — may not always be able to relate to the early-stage struggles in the same way. They’ve long forgotten what it’s like to be completely lost on how to make a sale, set up a website or land that first client.
But you? You remember. And because of that, you can guide your clients through those challenges with practical, actionable steps that feel doable.
Clients don’t just want strategies. They want someone who understands them. That’s what makes your coaching so valuable.
Your Experience Is Enough To Be A Great Coach
So often, we undervalue our own knowledge because we assume everyone already knows what we know. But what’s second nature to you might be mind-blowing to someone else.
For example:
- If you’ve successfully built a social media following, there’s someone out there struggling to get their first 100 followers who would love your help.
- If you’ve booked clients consistently, there’s someone out there who has no idea where to start.
- Or if you’ve launched a coaching program, there’s someone staring at a blank Google Doc wondering how to create their first offer.
The things you take for granted are the exact things your dream clients wish they knew how to do.
The Importance Of Confidence (Even If You Don’t Feel 100% Ready)
Let’s be real — imposter syndrome is real. It creeps in, whispering things like:
- Who do you think you are to teach this?
- What if someone calls you out for not knowing enough?
- What if you mess up?
But here’s the thing: Confidence isn’t about knowing everything. It’s about showing up, serving and trusting that your experience is valuable.
And the best way to build confidence? Take action. The more you coach, the more you’ll see firsthand that your knowledge does make a difference.
Position Yourself As The Right Coach For The Right People
Not everyone needs (or can afford) a $20,000 VIP coaching day with a top-tier expert. And that’s actually a good thing. It means there’s room for you to step in and help the people who need exactly what you offer.
So instead of getting stuck in “I don’t know enough” mode, ask yourself:
- What have I figured out that I wish I had known earlier?
- What do people already come to me for advice on?
- Who is just a few steps behind me that I could genuinely help?
Because that’s where you’ll find your people. And they’re the ones who will get the most out of your coaching.
Your Dream Clients Are Waiting For You
If you’ve been hesitating to put yourself out there as a coach, consider this your permission slip: You are ready.
You don’t have to be the top expert in your field. And you don’t have to know everything. You just have to show up, share what you do know and help the people who are looking for exactly what you offer.
Because at the end of the day, coaching isn’t about knowing everything. It’s about helping someone else move forward. And if you can do that? You’re already a great coach. Now go out there and shine!
