Overcome your fear of starting…
It’s easier, more exciting, and more fun to think about starting your online course business than it is to actually launch it and tell the world about it.
I know… I’ve been there.
Here are some steps to consider to get that fire under your feet.
1. Acknowledge and Embrace Your Fear
Fear is a natural response to venturing into new territory. Acknowledge that your fear is valid and that you are not alone in feeling apprehensive about online teaching. Embrace the fact that you are stepping outside of your comfort zone and that personal growth often comes from confronting and overcoming fears. Take comfort in the knowledge that every successful online teacher has faced similar concerns at some point.
2. Believe in Your Systems
Develop a customer journey that you are excited for your students to take. From
that you believe in. Take the time to research online teaching platforms, tools, and resources available to you. Familiarize yourself with different virtual classroom software, video conferencing tools, and content management systems. Online tutorials and webinars can be invaluable for learning the basics. As you become more informed, your confidence will grow, and you will feel better equipped to handle the challenges of online teaching.
3. Start Small and Build Confidence
When venturing into the world of online teaching, it's essential not to overwhelm yourself. Begin with a small, manageable course to build your confidence gradually. Focus on a subject you feel passionate about and comfortable teaching. As you gain experience and confidence, you can expand your course offerings and experiment with different teaching methods.
4. Track your progress
In order to keep track of my user engagement, income, and member count, I maintain a spreadsheet that I update daily. It is the first thing I check in the morning and I record the previous day's numbers. This practice helps me maintain a positive attitude and not get too caught up in comparing myself to others. Rather, I focus on my own progress by comparing my current numbers to those of the previous month. As long as I’m making progress, I’m stoked.
Focus on Student Engagement
One of the common fears among online teachers is whether they can create a vibrant and interactive learning environment. Strive to foster a sense of community in your virtual classroom. Encourage student participation through discussions, group projects, and interactive quizzes. Regularly provide feedback and respond promptly to students' questions or concerns. The more engaged your students are, the more rewarding your teaching experience will be.
Conclusion
Overcoming the fear of starting online teaching is a transformative process that requires determination, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change. As you venture into the world of virtual education, remember that it's okay to feel apprehensive at first. Stay committed to your growth, seek support, and never stop learning. Embrace the challenges as opportunities for improvement, and before long, you will find yourself thriving as an online educator, making a positive impact on the lives of your students from around the world. Happy teaching!