Does the thought of “selling” make you feel like you need a shower?
Yeah, I get it. Selling has a reputation problem. Most people hear the word “sales” and immediately picture a curated internet guru promising you a six-figure income if you just buy their overpriced, “limited-time” course before midnight. And sure, some people do sell like that. But most of us? We actually believe in what we offer.
You started your business because you knew you could help people. But here’s the kicker—you can’t help them if they don’t know you exist. And that means selling. Selling isn’t about tricking people into something they don’t need—it’s about showing up, owning your expertise, and helping the right people solve their problems. Selling isn’t sleazy. Selling is giving.
Let’s break this down.
Why Selling Has a Bad Rap (And Why That’s Bullsh*t)
Sales gets a bad reputation because, frankly, a lot of people suck at it. We’ve all been cornered by that overly enthusiastic, high-pressure pitch that makes us want to fake an emergency exit.
But real selling—the kind that builds relationships and makes bank—isn’t about pushing people into a deal. It’s about finding the right people, showing them you get their struggles, and giving them a real solution.
Sales is everywhere. Your doctor sold you on why you should trust them with your health. Your favorite gym sold you on why their equipment and trainers are worth your membership fee. Hell, your best friend once “sold” you on trying that questionable sushi spot—and now it’s your go-to.
The trick is to sell honestly. Make real promises and actually deliver. Find the people who need what you offer and talk to them like a human. When you do that, you’re not selling—you’re helping.
How to Sell With an Open Heart (And a Full Bank Account)
How do you sell without feeling like you need to apologize (or take a shower afterward)?
1. Get Crystal Clear on Your “Why”
If you don’t know why you do what you do, your audience sure as hell won’t. What problem do you solve? What impact do you make? Selling gets easier (and way less awkward) when you believe in what you’re offering.
2. Understand Your Ideal Client (Like, Really Understand Them)
Not everyone is your client. And the sooner you accept that, the less time you’ll waste chasing people who aren’t a good fit. Who actually benefits from what you do? What’s keeping them up at night? What’s the biggest pain point they’re desperate to fix? The better you understand your audience, the easier it is to talk directly to them.
3. Talk Like a Human, Not a Robot
People don’t care about what you do. They care about how what you do helps them. So, ditch the sales jargon and talk like a real person. Share your story. Be honest about your struggles. Empathize. No one wants to be “pitched,” but everyone wants to be understood.
4. Sell to the Right People, Not Just Anyone
Stop bending over backward for clients who drain you. Focus on attracting the right clients—the ones who get it, respect your expertise, and actually want what you offer. The easiest way to hate your business is to work with the wrong people.
How Ethical Selling Can Help You Give Back (And Create Freedom While You’re at It)
The best part of mastering sales? It gives you the freedom to not sell all the time.
When your business is thriving, you can afford to give back. Maybe that’s mentoring up-and-coming entrepreneurs. Maybe it’s offering pro bono work to nonprofits. Maybe it’s connecting your dream clients with each other so they can collaborate and grow.
And let’s not forget—your best clients probably know other incredible people. When you build a strong network, you create a ripple effect that leads to more opportunities, more impact, and, yeah—more money.
Sales Isn’t Dirty. It’s Essential
Selling isn’t about pressuring people or tricking them into buying something they don’t need. It’s about showing up, being real, and offering something that genuinely helps. It’s about building relationships, making an impact, and creating a business that lets you live life on your terms.
So next time you hesitate to sell, remember this: You’re not begging. You’re not tricking. You’re giving people something they need. And when you do it right, selling isn’t just profitable—it’s powerful.
