OVERCOMING VISIBILITY BLOCKS: A MINDSET SHIFT FOR COACHES

Being visible online can feel like an uphill battle, even when we know it’s essential for growing our coaching business. Whether it’s posting on LinkedIn, updating a website, or reaching out to potential clients, many coaches struggle with an inner voice that whispers doubts and fears.

But here’s the truth: Visibility isn’t just about strategy—it’s about mindset. 

If you’ve ever hesitated before hitting ‘post’ or felt like an imposter when sharing your expertise, you’re not alone. These automatic negative thoughts (ANTs) can create roadblocks, keeping you from showing up as your best self. The key to breaking through? Reframing those thoughts into Performance Enhancing Thoughts (PETs) that empower you to take action.

Recognising the Mental Barriers

Before we can shift our mindset, we need to identify the thoughts that hold us back. Common visibility-related ANTs include:

🚫 “People will think I’m annoying.”

🚫 “Who am I to be an expert?”

🚫 “What if someone calls me out?”

🚫 “I don’t look the part.”

🚫 “Other coaches are way ahead of me.”

Sound familiar? These thoughts can trigger feelings of shame, fear, and hesitation, leading to procrastination, self-censorship, and avoidance.

Shifting to Performance Enhancing Thoughts (PETs)

Instead of letting ANTs dictate your actions, consciously replace them with thoughts that support your goals. PETs aren’t about blind positivity—they’re about crafting thoughts that enhance your ability to show up and engage.

For example:

✔ Instead of: “I’m not really an expert.”

Try: “I have valuable insights that can help someone today.”

✔ Instead of: “I don’t look professional enough.”

Try: “My ideal clients value authenticity, and I show up as myself.”

✔ Instead of: “What if people judge me?”

Try: “Some people might, but the right clients will resonate with me.”

By making this shift, you’ll find yourself moving from fear-driven hesitation to confident action.

Practical Steps to Embed This Shift

Transforming your mindset isn’t a one-time exercise; it’s a habit. Here’s how to make PETs a regular part of your visibility practice:

📝 Write down your ANTs and PETs daily. This helps train your brain to reframe negativity.

⏳ Take five minutes before posting to reinforce your PETs. Read them out loud if needed.

📌 Keep your PETs visible. Stick them on your desk or set them as phone reminders.

🎯 Treat visibility as an experiment. Every post is a learning opportunity, not a test.

Your Visibility Breakthrough Starts Now

Building a coaching business requires showing up consistently—not just for your audience, but for yourself. Shifting from ANTs to PETs is a powerful way to rewire your mindset, allowing you to market with confidence, authenticity, and impact.

So, what’s one ANT you’re ready to replace today? Start now, and watch how your visibility—and business—transforms.