Myth #20: Success Means Working with as Many Clients as Possible

Today we’re busting a myth that shows up early and often in a coach’s journey- the idea that success means having the most clients and working 1:1 like crazy.

At first glance, this sounds logical because you probably think that more clients must mean more income, more impact, more momentum… right?

But here’s what I want to ask: At what cost?

When we buy into the myth that more equals better, we often end up building something that drains us- not something that fuels us. So let’s talk about the real markers of success and how to build a coaching practice that honors your time, energy, and calling.

The myth:

So many coaches, especially in the beginning, feel pressure to fill their calendars. There’s this voice whispering,

“If I were really successful, I’d be booked out. I’d have a waitlist. I’d be coaching back to back.”

But I want to challenge that because success isn’t about volume. It’s about value.

The truth is, impact matters more than numbers.

If you’re coaching 3 clients and they’re getting breakthroughs, becoming who they’re called to be, and telling their friends about the transformation: that is success. That is fruit. That is legacy work.

But if you’re juggling 15 clients, half-showing up to each one, burning yourself out, and questioning whether you’re even making a difference, that’s not it.

You don’t need more clients. You need the right clients- people who are ready, willing, and committed to the process. People you can truly partner with for transformation.

Now let me pause here and speak to you if you’re a newer coach.

Maybe you’re still in your first year or two and you're thinking, “But I want more clients. I have the time. I have the energy. I just want to coach as many people as I can and get better at it.”

And honestly? That’s okay.

There’s something beautiful about that early-stage fire — that hunger to serve, to practice, to build. And the truth is, sometimes the only way to learn what your limit is… is to stretch it.

But here’s the wisdom I want to offer: You don’t have to stay in that mode forever.

You’re allowed to start wide and then refine. You can say yes to more opportunities in the beginning to build experience — and give yourself permission to slowly tighten your boundaries and get more intentional as you grow.

Over time, you’ll begin to notice what drains you. You’ll see which clients light you up and which ones leave you spinning. You’ll learn how much margin you need to prepare well and process afterward. And you’ll start creating offers and rhythms that serve both your clients and your capacity.

So if you're all in right now, that’s okay, just hold it with open hands.

Let it be a season. Not a standard.

My story

I once had a season where I was saying yes to almost every potential client. I had the availability, the heart, and honestly, a little bit of hustle mindset still in me.

But over time, I noticed I was showing up tired. I was cramming sessions back to back. I didn’t have space to prepare, reflect, or recharge. And worst of all- I started resenting my own calendar.

That was my wake-up call.

More clients didn’t equal more peace, more freedom, or even more income long-term — because I wasn’t doing my best work. And if I’m not thriving, the client doesn’t benefit either.

So what’s the solution?

It’s choosing quality over quantity, on purpose.

That means creating containers of coaching that are aligned with your energy and strengths.

It might mean:

• Capping your client load

• Raising your prices so you don’t have to overbook

• Designing a longer-term program that lets you go deeper instead of wider

• Offering group coaching or short intensives in seasons where 1:1 isn’t sustainable

It definitely means saying no sometimes — even when it’s hard. Even when your calendar looks empty. Because your ye sto the wrong client might be a no to the one who really needs you.

When you serve fewer people more deeply, you create ripple effects. You gain referrals. You build a reputation for transformation. You grow something sustainable instead of stressful.

Permission Slip

This is your permission to:

Create a business that fits your life: not the other way around.

Friend, success isn’t about collecting clients like trophies. It’s about walking with people toward change in a way that honors both their story and your stewardship.

So let’s stop measuring our coaching success by how many names are on the calendar... and start measuring it by the fruit we see in our clients’ lives.

You’re not here to build a worldly empire. You’re here to build the Kingdom. And that starts with one intentional “yes” at a time.

Until next time, keep building with purpose, integrity, and faith.

READER CHALLENGE

Take 10 minutes this week to review your current client load and ask:

• Is this pace sustainable?

• Do I feel energized or drained?

• Are my clients getting my best?

• Would fewer clients actually allow for more impact?

• Does this match the kind of life and business I want to build?

If you’re a newer coach, consider how you will scale down over time if you begin by working with everyone who comes your way.