Have you ever found yourself staring at your Instagram app, wondering how to transform your daily coaching routine into captivating content?
I know that feeling of getting caught in the whirlpool of self-doubt, questioning whether my mundane behind-the-scenes moments could ever resonate with anyone. But I learned that they can (and they will). How do we make that happen?
The Fear of Showing Up Imperfectly
When I first started using Instagram Stories and Reels, I was paralyzed by the idea of perfection. “What if my lighting is off?” “What if I stumble over my words?” Or worse, “What if nobody watches my videos?” Sound familiar?
Here’s the thing: Instagram thrives on authenticity. The glossy, hyper-edited days of social media are going away. People are craving connection, not perfection. This is a game-changer for me and it will be for you, too.
So, if you’re holding back because your Stories don’t look like a Netflix production, let that go. Your audience doesn’t need the perfect version of you; they need the real one.
Finding Your Content Sweet Spot
Now, you might be asking, “What on earth do I even post?” Great question. The answer lies in one word: value. As a life coach, your job is to inspire, guide, and empower. Your Instagram content should do the same.
Start with these three types of content:
1. Educational Nuggets – Share bite-sized pieces of wisdom. For example, a 15-second Reel explaining how to reframe negative self-talk can be incredibly impactful. Or create a Story about why your morning routine might be sabotaging your success.
2. Behind-the-Scenes – People love seeing how the magic happens. Show them your workspace, your coffee-fueled brainstorming sessions, or even your messy whiteboard full of client strategies.
You can use Instagram’s Polls or Questions stickers to make these Stories interactive. “What’s your favorite journaling prompt?” or “Which goal are you most excited about this week?” can spark meaningful engagement.
3. Success Stories – Share your clients’ wins (with their permission). These Stories and Reels serve as social proof and inspire others to believe in your process. Pairing client stories with a touch of vulnerability about your own journey creates a deeper connection.
Reels: Your Mini-Movie Studio
If Stories are your casual coffee chat, Reels are your TED Talk—short, impactful, and unforgettable. But don’t worry, you don’t need to be Spielberg to make them effective.
Here’s a simple framework for your first few Reels:
1. Hook Them Fast – The first three seconds are crucial. Start with a question or a bold statement like, “You’re setting goals wrong… here’s why.”
2. Show, Don’t Just Tell – Visuals matter. If you’re talking about morning routines, show a clip of your alarm clock, your journal, and your coffee mug.
3. Call to Action – Every Reel should end with a nudge: “DM me for personalized tips” or “Follow for more coaching insights.”
Building a Narrative with Stories
If Reels are your headline act, Stories are your backstage pass. They’re where your audience gets to know the person behind the brand. The key is consistency. Posting regularly builds trust and keeps you top of mind.
A few ideas for your Stories:
- Morning Motivation – Share a daily quote or mantra. Bonus points if you’re speaking it directly to the camera.
- Mini-Tutorials – Teach something quick, like a breathing exercise for stress.
- Real-Life Moments – Let your audience in on your day, even if it’s just a quick check-in during a walk or a snapshot of your favorite book.
Don’t overthink it. Stories disappear in 24 hours, so use them as your playground for experimentation.
Engagement: The Magic Ingredient
Remember, Instagram isn’t a monologue; it’s a dialogue. Respond to comments, engage with DMs, and acknowledge your followers’ input. When someone replies to your Story or leaves a comment on your Reel, treat it like a conversation.
Here’s a tactic that’s worked wonders for many: When someone interacts with your content, make a point to ask them a follow-up question. Not only does this boost engagement, but it also deepens relationships.
Measuring What Matters
Finally, look at your metrics. It’s easy to get caught up in likes and views, but as a life coach, your real goal is connection. Pay attention to:
- DMs – Are people reaching out to you for advice or coaching?
- Saves and Shares – These signal that your content is valuable.
- Client Conversions – Track how many inquiries or sign-ups come from your Instagram efforts.
Using Instagram Stories and Reels isn’t about chasing trends or becoming a social media influencer / superstar. It’s about showing up authentically and sharing the heart of your coaching process. So, grab your phone, hit record, and start building those connections. Remember, the world needs what only you can offer—imperfections and all.
And hey, if your first few attempts feel awkward, that’s okay. You’re not alone. Just keep showing up. Your audience—and your future clients—are waiting.
