5 Powerful Lessons I Learned from Going Live on Instagram for 7 Days
I recently challenged myself to do something that totally freaked me out—go live on Instagram every day for 7 days. Not pre-recorded, not filtered, not rehearsed. Just me, live, messy, real.
Why? Because I knew I needed to push myself out of my comfort zone. Live video is scary, even for someone who hosts virtual wine tastings and talks about fun, lighthearted things. But this was different. This was me beginning to shift my channel to something more meaningful—something deeper.
It was about starting to build a community of women who are ready for more in life. Women who are ready to uncork their joy, step into their power, and say yes to new beginnings.
Here are the 5 biggest lessons I learned (in order from least to most impactful):
5. Set a Goal and Talk to Yourself Like a Friend
One thing that helped me stick to the challenge was treating my goal like a promise I made to a friend. I wouldn’t cancel plans at the last minute with someone I love and respect, so why would I do that to myself?
This mindset shift was powerful. It taught me that my goals matter and that honoring my commitments builds self-respect. And honestly, hitting “Go Live” every day made me feel proud, even if it was just for me.
4. Speak to Just One Person
We put so much pressure on ourselves to “perform” online—to grow, gain followers, and get engagement. But what if we shifted that?
Each day, I imagined I was talking to just one woman who needed to hear what I had to say. That’s it. And guess what? I often received one or two DMs from people saying, “Wow, I really needed that today.” That was all the confirmation I needed.
When we stop performing and start connecting, magic happens.
3. Practice Reveals Your Passion
These Lives became practice for me as a new coach. I talked about things that fired me up—like ditching guilt and building a life you love. And I realized... I didn’t need a script, perfect lighting, or a prompt. I just needed to speak from my heart.
Going live gave me clarity on what I care about and what I’m meant to help others with. It became a mini discovery lab for my coaching practice.
2. Ditch the Perfection
Most days, I went live right after my workout—sweaty, hair a mess, still catching my breath. And it was the best thing I could’ve done.
Why? Because I showed up as me. Not the polished version. The real version. That’s the version I want my clients and community to connect with.
I wanted the women watching to see someone who isn’t trying to be perfect but who is still showing up, doing the work, and living a joyful, purpose-filled life. Hopefully, that would give them permission to do the same.
1. Do It Anyway
This was the biggest lesson of all. I’d sit there staring at the live button. My heart would race. I’d feel the fear creeping in.
But after about 10 seconds, I’d push it anyway.
Because action is the only way we move forward. I didn’t go live to get new followers or clients (though that would’ve been great). I did it because I needed to grow. I needed to prove to myself that I could do hard things—and not die of embarrassment in the process.
And now? I feel braver, more confident, and more equipped to show up and serve my community. I’ve got a plan to make future Lives even more engaging and impactful—and I’m inviting you to be a part of it.
So What’s Next?
This challenge was just the beginning. I’m building something new—a space for women who are ready to let go of guilt, embrace change, and create joyful, exciting lives.
If that’s you, I’d love to invite you to my women’s only Happy Hour Zoom Call. It’s totally free, and it’s a beautiful way to connect with me and other amazing women. No pressure, no perfection—just real talk, a glass of wine (if you want), and support for your next chapter. Think of it like half therapy, half mastermind, and half meeting your new best friends who are also kick-ass just like you.
👉 Join Here to get your invite to these life-changing Happy Hours.
Cheers to showing up scared, to taking action anyway, and to building something beautiful, one step at a time.
With love and wine,
Courtney