Most months I start with no idea who will hire me. That uncertainty creates anxiety, even though I've learned to manage it well.

Here's what helps: While my practice feels unpredictable month-to-month, it's actually quite predictable year-to-year. In the past three years, I've rarely had a month with zero coaching transactions.

I've found that reducing uncertainty comes down to nurturing three types of relationships:

1. People who already trust me in a coaching context (past clients, podcast listeners)
2. People who like and trust me, but not yet in a coaching context
3. Complete strangers who might eventually become clients

The coaching transactions that happen this month won't be random or "out of the blue" – they'll be the natural outcome of relationships planted and nurtured days, weeks, or even years ago.

So yes, coaching is an unpredictable business. But by nurturing relationships, we make the unpredictable parts less volatile.

Announcement: On May 1 I'm holding my first "Office Hours with Mark". Office Hours creates space and time for my fellow coaches to connect with me and get support. Go to https://mrkbtlr.com/office-hours to opt in for details.