Let me get real with you for a minute. While my ADHD coaching business is thriving now, the journey here wasn't exactly smooth sailing. After four years in this industry and countless "learning opportunities" (aka mistakes), I've got some hard-earned wisdom to share.
And since I get flooded with DMs asking about starting an ADHD coaching business, I figured it's time to break down what I wish I'd known from the start.
Mistake #1: Trying to Help Everyone (Classic Rookie Move)
Here's my biggest face-palm moment: coming out of my coaching certification thinking I could help every adult with ADHD. Spoiler alert: I couldn't.
The reality? ADHD coaching isn't just a niche anymore—it's a full-blown profession with increasing competition. What worked even two years ago won't cut it in 2025.
What I'd Do Differently: I would niche down immediately. In fact, I've researched 27 high-growth ADHD coaching niches that are prime for development in 2025. (You can grab that free guide here—it's exactly what I wish I'd had when starting out.)
Mistake #2: Relying Too Heavily on One-on-One Coaching
Look, I love deep coaching conversations. But as an introvert, I quickly learned that doing back-to-back one-on-one sessions wasn't sustainable. Plus, the pricing model meant only a small percentage of people who needed help could afford it.
What I'd Do Differently: I'd start building group programs much sooner. Just recently, I launched my ADHD Reset program with 75 participants (way more than I expected!), and it's been incredible. We're using Circle as our platform, combining pre-recorded content with live coaching sessions, and the community aspect has been game-changing.
Mistake #3: Underestimating the Power of Systems
Oh, the irony of an ADHD coach with messy business systems! I spent way too long trying to wing it before realizing I needed solid systems to keep everything running smoothly.
What I'd Do Differently: This is exactly why I created the [Coach Hub Planner and Template]—to help other coaches avoid my early chaos. It includes all the systems I eventually developed for:
- Managing client relationships
- Creating consistent content
- Organizing business operations
- Tracking progress and metrics
Mistake #4: Misunderstanding Marketing in the Digital Age
I spent years trying to grow my Instagram following, and guess what? I still have under 10,000 followers, and my content barely gets any traction. Meanwhile, I was neglecting what actually works in 2025.
What I'd Do Differently:
- Start building an email list from day one (my Sunday Setup newsletter is now my most valuable marketing channel)
- Focus on community building over content creation
- Choose one primary platform and do it well, rather than trying to be everywhere
- Invest in building genuine connections rather than chasing follower counts
Mistake #5: Rushing to Replace My Corporate Income
This was a mindset mistake that caused a lot of unnecessary stress. I came into coaching thinking I needed to match my tech salary quickly, which led to making decisions from a place of scarcity rather than service.
What I'd Do Differently: Keep my day job longer and build the coaching business with a focus on impact rather than income. The truth? This is the first year I'm approaching my previous corporate income, but I'm doing work I truly love and making a real difference in people's lives.
The Most Valuable Lesson: The ADHD Coaching Industry is Evolving
The ADHD coaching landscape has changed dramatically, especially with the rise of AI and coaching apps. But here's what I've learned: while information is becoming more accessible, the need for human connection and community is greater than ever.
That's why in 2025, successful ADHD coaches need to focus on:
- Building engaged communities
- Offering personalized support at scale
- Creating programs that combine structure with flexibility
- Maintaining authentic connections with their audience
Ready to Start Your ADHD Coaching Journey (Without the Mistakes)?
Look, you're going to make some mistakes—we all do. But you don't have to make the same ones I did.
The first step to building a sustainable ADHD coaching business in 2025 is choosing the right niche. I've put together a free guide outlining 27 High-Growth ADHD Coaching Niches based on current market research and opportunities I'm seeing in the field.
These aren't just random ideas—they're viable business opportunities I wish I'd known about when I started.
Lastly, it's important to remember that success in ADHD coaching isn't about being perfect—it's about being strategic and authentic while truly serving your community. Start with the right foundation, and you'll be amazed at what you can build.
Good luck!
