Ever been put off creating an online course because it felt like trying to eat an elephant? Yeah, I've been there. The endless to-do lists, the tech decisions, the content planning... it can feel like too much, especially when you're juggling it with a 9-5.

But here's the thing - it doesn't have to be overwhelming. I built my first course working just 30 mins a day (and hit my income goals within 3 months). The secret? Breaking it down into manageable chunks and having a system that actually works.

Let me share exactly how to do this.

1. The Time Block Strategy

Stop trying to "find time" for your course. Instead, decide how much time you're going to give it each week and stick to it. Like actually stick to it - put it in your calendar and treat it like you would any other important meeting.

My recommendation? 3-4 hours in 1-2 blocks per week. Or 30 mins a day if you prefer. That's it. You don't need more.

Why this works:

• It's enough time to make real progress
• It's realistic alongside a full-time job
• It creates momentum without burnout
• It forces you to focus on what matters

2. Build Your Roadmap

Flying blind is the fastest route to overwhelm. You need a plan - but not a complicated one.

Think of it like this: if you were driving across the country, you wouldn't just start driving and hope for the best. You'd have a map, know your major stops, and have a rough idea of how long each leg would take.

Your course needs the same approach. You need to know:

• What you're creating
• Who it's for
• The major milestones
• Rough timelines for each phase

Need help with this? I've put together a free training that walks you through exactly how to plan your journey: therawleader.com/impact

3. The Two-List System That Changes Everything

Here's a game-changer: You only need two lists to manage your entire course creation process. Based on the famous Japanese 'Kanban' system it's a time-tested system that cuts through overwhelm like nothing else I've found.

Use a simple task tracking system like Todoist (the free version is perfect). Create two lists:

List 1: "To Do" This is your brain dump list. Everything you think of goes here. All those random 3am ideas? Drop them here.

List 2: "Doing" This is your focus list. Only 3-4 tasks live here at any time. That's it. No exceptions. When you've cleared the Doing list, scan through the To-do list for the next priority tasks and drag 3-4 of them over to the Doing list.

Why this works:

• It keeps you focused on what matters right now
• It stops you feeling overwhelmed by ALL THE THINGS whilst still having somewhere to get them out of your head
• It gives you clear priorities
• It helps you actually finish tasks instead of starting new ones

4. Monitor Your Mindset

Here's something most people don't talk about: The biggest obstacles to creating your course usually live between your ears.

Those sneaky thoughts that creep in:

• "Who am I to teach this?"
• "What if no one buys it?"
• "I should wait until I know more"

Listen, I get it. But here's the truth: These are just stories we tell ourselves. They're not facts.

The key is to catch these thoughts early and challenge them. Replace "Who am I to teach this?" with "Who am I NOT to offer what I've learned to those who want help?"

Ready to Take Action?

Start with these three simple steps:

1. Block out your course creation time for next week - right now

2. Set up your two lists in Todoist (or your preferred tool)

3. Write down your first milestone

Remember: You don't need to have it all figured out to start. You just need to start.

Want my complete framework for building a profitable course business in your spare time? Check out my free training at therawleader.com/impact

Your course matters. Your knowledge matters. And yes, you can absolutely do this - even with a 9-5 job.