When people say “start small” or “do it scared,” it can feel easier said than done. But when it comes to creating a digital course, starting small is the best way forward. You’re taking what you already know and turning it into something that multiplies your impact, grows your income, and frees up your time.
I launched my very first program, “The Jenna Kutcher Course” (yep, not the most creative name), with a mix of excitement and anxiety. It wasn’t perfect, but it worked: that first launch brought in five figures, gave me new confidence, and opened the door to teaching on a bigger scale than I ever imagined.
Whether you’re building your side hustle from your 9-5 or ready to expand your existing business, a digital course is a brilliant way to grow. And if that feels overwhelming, here’s the good news: you don’t have to start big. You can start simple and still see success.
RELATED: Unlock the Secrets to a Profitable Online Course
Step 1: Break Into the Digital Course Creator Mindset
Before you map modules or film a single video, you’ve got to believe in your own expertise. This is often the hardest part. Imposter syndrome will whisper: “Who am I to teach this?”
Here’s the truth: you know something that someone else is desperate to learn. That’s enough.
When I transitioned from photography into online education, I was scared too. But I decided to launch, even with my doubts. And the numbers spoke louder than my fears.
Mindset shift to remember: This isn’t a test you have to ace. It’s an adventure, one that could change everything.
Step 2: Nail Down Your Digital Course Topic
Your course doesn’t need to cover everything you know. It just needs to solve one specific problem.
Ask yourself:
- What do people ask me about all the time?
- What system or routine has changed my work or life?
- What do I know now that I wish I had known at the beginning?
Talk to your friends, peers, or online community. Their questions will help you land on the right idea. And don’t forget: your unique spin is what makes your course unforgettable. These things might seem ordinary to you, but they can be revolutionary for others.
Start small, keep it focused, and trust that your knowledge is exactly what someone needs.
Step 3: Structure Your Course Content Without the Overwhelm
Not all courses look the same (and wouldn’t it be boring if they did?) Some are video-based, some are text-heavy, some use templates or workbooks. There’s no one “right” format; there’s only what delivers your content clearly and simply.
Here’s what I want you to know:
- You don’t need to master every tech tool.
- You don’t need 20 modules.
- You don’t need to overwhelm your students to give them value.
Start with the easiest format for you. Add resources that feel natural. Remember: clarity beats complexity every time.
And if you want guidance, this is where my first mentor, Amy Porterfield, shines. She’s hosting her LIVE Digital Course Creation Bootcamp, a hands-on training where she’ll walk you through the exact steps to choose your topic, price it, structure it, and start building.
RELATED: An Honest Review of Amy Porterfield’s Digital Course Academy
Bonus Step: Grow an Eager List of Students Now
One of the biggest mistakes I see? Waiting until your course is finished before telling anyone about it.
Instead, start building excitement early. Share behind the scenes. Poll your audience on course names. Ask questions and let them shape the experience. When launch day comes, you’ll already have warm leads who are eager to buy.
Quick Checklist: Your Digital Course Starter Steps
- Believe in your expertise (imposter syndrome is a liar!)
- Choose one focused course topic that solves a problem
- Decide on a simple format (video, audio, templates, or a mix)
- Start sharing about your course idea before it’s done
- Build excitement with polls, Q&As, and sneak peeks
- Price your course based on value (you can start small and grow!)
Digital Course Creation FAQs
Q: Do I need to have an audience before I create my course?
A: No! You can start small, even 50-100 people on your email list can be enough to launch. Building your audience can happen alongside your course creation.
Q: How much should I price my first course?
A: It depends on the transformation you’re offering. Quick wins can be $100-$300. More robust, step-by-step systems can be priced higher. You can always start small and raise your price as you grow.
Q: What if I’m not tech-savvy?
A: That’s okay! There are simple platforms designed for beginners, and Amy’s Bootcamp walks you through the tools you need without overwhelm.
Q: What if my first course isn’t perfect?
A: Good news: it doesn’t have to be. My first course was far from perfect, but it still worked. Think “progress, not perfection.”
Craft Your Course LIVE with My First Mentor
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to finally create your course, this is it.
Join Amy Porterfield’s LIVE Digital Course Creation Bootcamp, and I’ll also send you my Pinterest mini-course, The Pinterest Kickstart, absolutely FREE. Why Pinterest? It’s how you will drive evergreen traffic to your course with my 1-hour/week strategy, so that it doesn’t add more to your plate while you implement what you are learning about launching your course!
This Bootcamp is the kind of resource I wish I had when I was starting out. Instead of guessing, you’ll have a step-by-step plan, expert coaching, and a community that’s moving alongside you. You’ll walk away not just with ideas, but with real momentum and a course you’re proud to put into the world.
More clarity. More confidence. More freedom. It all starts with this first step, and I can’t wait to see what you create.
Don’t miss this chance to build your course LIVE with Amy Porterfield!
Disclosure: I’m a proud affiliate for Amy Porterfield’s Bootcamp. That means if you sign up through my link, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. The best part? You’ll also get my bonus, Insta Essentials, completely free as my thank-you gift.
