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When I started strength training years ago, I began with two-pound weights and a ten-minute workout. That first session left me exhausted and I slept the rest of the afternoon. My trainer was patient and kind. He kept reminding me real strength builds slowly, one rep at a time.
Week by week, we added a little more weight. He showed me how to rest between sets and when to hold back to reduce injury. After a year, I was lifting 135 pounds. The secret wasn’t how much I could push myself, but having someone to guide me, help me lift safely, and remind me to rest.
That same principle applies to growing your newsletter list. You don’t have to do it all at once, and you don’t have to do it alone.
Here are a few ways to grow your list naturally and without the ick.
Share Who You’ve Been Meeting
If you’re having coffee chats with other professionals, talk about them. A quick post or mention in your newsletter helps others see the value of connecting and builds trust with your readers.
Spotlight Others in Your Newsletter
Add a small feature in each issue that highlights someone whose work complements yours. Collaboration adds value for your audience and keeps your newsletter fresh and engaging.
Build a Trusted Resource List
Keep a list of professionals you love recommending. When clients or readers need help, you can share that list freely. It positions you as a generous connector and builds stronger relationships. Many times people will share you and your resources as they learn to trust you.
Remember You’re Not Competing, but Collaborating
When you look at others as collaborators you can learn from, rather than competition, it changes everything. People trust those who don’t act like they know it all. You can show up as both an authority and a learner. The landscape is changing, and people are drawn to authenticity.
A Gentle Reminder
Organic growth takes time, just like strength training. You build momentum one connection, one story, and one act of generosity at a time. Collaboration is part of that process. When you focus on learning, sharing, and supporting others, your growth becomes steady and genuine.
Having support, whether from a mentor, coach, or assistant, helps you stay consistent and grounded while you grow.
Also, You can sign up here for two free resources to help you get on track and stay on track with your email marketing!
What could shift in your business if you started seeing connection as the measure of success?