Five years ago, the idea of making videos for social media would have both baffled and horrified me.

Now I happily chat to the camera (making sure not to try too hard because that’s where it all goes wrong).

I’ve changed since I started posting regularly on LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. I’m more comfortable, not just with video, but with the range of things I share. Look back at 2023 and I’m a bit too serious. All my posts are about coaching and mentoring (someone at the time did actually ask if I was trying to sell some kind of ‘be a coach’ training programme).

The range of what I’m comfortable with has expanded and I’m calling this the Richerton window. I have shamelessly borrowed this from the world of politics. I’m referring to the Overton window, a concept that refers to the ideas the public currently finds acceptable.

Your personal version of the Richerton window is what helps you to decide whether you’re comfortable making a video for your website or turning up for a formal event in pink trainers.

Shall we see if we can smash a few panes? I’ve found the Pirate movement with its focus on making good, disruptive trouble a real inspiration here. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to. It’s your window. However, there might be things you feel you should do. Take a look into the Richerton Window and see what looks back.

I was very nervous about publishing my post about ADHD and me, but I received so much support. It helped me feel more comfortable with talking about it and as a result I became more active in the neurodivergent community. I got involved with the Lilac Review and I am now on the board for the Lilac Centre.

Take small steps. Put out it out there and see what happens

Working with a coach or mentor offers great opportunities for expanding your window. Some of the mentees I’ve worked with actually felt that working with me was not within their Richerton Window. Luckily for both of us, they were willing to take the risk and shift their frame a little. 

Accept that it’s ok to not do a thing – and equally ok to change your mind.

Having a sense of what you want to achieve is amazing. I love the energy that comes with it. The downer is when you get stuck trying to work out what the route is and if you’re allowed to do it. This is why I work with people on their why, their brand DNA and growing their confidence in pitching. You don’t have to do it alone – you can have a guide, a team and even an entire community to support you along the way.

Find a guide to help you overcome the obstacles in your path.

For me, the most interesting thing about the Richerton Window is that it’s always changing. You read a LinkedIn post and it shifts a little. Have a session with a mentor and realise that the catch is no longer stuck. Go to networking, have some enlightening conversations and it moves again. You don’t exist in a vacuum. Neither does your business. Go and get inspired.

Did someone say guide? I could be the right person to help you. Book a £25 discovery call with me and you’ll go away with loads of useful ideas (even if we don’t take it any further).