If you've followed me for years, then you already know this about me, I am all about ACTION. My brand of "self-help" is much more; do what I DO, not just what I SAY. I believe in less talk and a LOT more action.
If you're new to following me, you might be expecting the same types of content everyone else is putting out there; videos, IG videos, FB and IG live streaming, LOTS and LOTS of talking. Lots of telling you what to do.
But that's just not my style.
From the beginning of my journey, back when I started writing for my blog Thoughts.Stories.Life., I've always shared what I personally am doing to get results in my life. I've shared when it worked, and when it hasn't. And I've ALWAYS taught through my own story as an example. I've shown you HOW I've applied a particular topic, tool or method, and then shared how you can apply it in your life to also get results.
I've gotta be honest, sometimes I feel the pressure to be like everyone else. I think: Maybe I should do daily 'coaching' videos. Maybe I should be more active on YouTube. Maybe I should do what everyone else is doing. After all, there seems to be a pretty standard model for how to be an "expert," and maybe I just need to conform. Maybe I should just start telling people what to do.
It's a serious temptation. But that's not who I am. I've never claimed to be a guru. I'm not more enlightened than the next person, or smarter than anyone (in fact, maybe the opposite LOL).
I SHARE what I personally am working on in my own life at any given time. It's what inspires me to write, or post. I don't have a schedule of pre-created content to drip. I don't randomly pick topics, or pick ones that I think might reach the biggest audience or get the most followers. I simply write, speak and post about what I know, and that's my life. I "coach," or "teach" based on my first-hand experience of topics I know intimately well, based on much personal trial and error.
I've always felt that the most authentic way to teach anything, is to let the work and the results speak for themselves. My goal has always been to be a living, breathing example of what I teach. To share my life, my goals and dreams with you, so you can have a front-row seat as I turn them into reality. I want you to see that anything is possible, for ANYONE. And by "anyone" I mean YOU. That has been my motto/mission from day one, and I've always felt there’s no better way to prove it, then to be the Ginny Pig myself.
So, when I post about How to #GetGrateful, it's because I personally needed a gratitude reboot. When I share a manifestation, I'll give the steps and timeline for HOW I manifested it, so you can see how to do it too.
When I invite speakers to my events, they won't be "self-help" speakers. They will be REGULAR PEOPLE, chasing and living their dreams. They will share THEIR wisdom and tips for success, ones they've personally tested.
I think the "self-help" industry is saturated by a bunch of (let’s be honest, mostly men) telling people what to do. They aren't usually sharing it based on their own experience, and if they share stories at all, it's mainly "client stories." That has just never inspired or motivated me.
From the start, I've been committed to creating a "brand" that is authentic and REAL. Not polished. Not perfect. Not elitist. But one that features real stories, from real people. Real examples from my life, and client’s examples in THEIR OWN WORDS.
I'm NEVER going to teach, coach, post or write about something I haven't personally already tried and tested. I'm not going to represent people, things, ideas or products that I don't personally believe in.
I will also say what's on my mind, even when it's (very) unpopular. Whenever I do this, without fail someone who's a new follower (who doesn't really get me or know my work) will message me, saying; You shouldn't say that. You will lose followers or won't get clients. All I can say is, I didn't start this journey to become anyone I'm not. I didn't start coaching to be EVERYONE'S coach. I refuse to filter or conform just because that's what people are comfortable with or used to.
That commitment to remain authentically me is a constant struggle. It's not easy. But it's a promise I made to myself when I started, and one I intend to always keep.
Whatever your dreams or goals are, make a commitment to always stay true to what makes you authentic. Don't let other people’s opinions water down your dreams or change your "brand." Stay YOU. In the end, it's that ability to remain true to yourself and your convictions that will set you apart from the pack and bring you success, even when everyone tries to convince you otherwise.
Don't give in to the urge to mediocre. Don't ever be a version of anyone but yourself. Be okay with the fact that not everyone will get or appreciate this. And you know what? That's just fine because the people who do will loyally love and respect you for staying authentic.
Ready to take your life, career, goals and yourself to the next level? Check out my life coaching options or take my online life coaching courses to get the results you DESERVE!
Sarah Centrella is a #1 best-selling author of several self-help books, a motivational keynote speaker, master life coach, Founder of VIVIAMO and podcast host.