Short-Term Wins, Long-Term Struggles: Why Many Doulas Stay Stuck

Kendra Lonon
Oct 10
2 min read

Updated: Oct 13

Reflections on how to get clients as a new doula

When you first step into birthwork, the pressure is real: “get clients, get booked, get the bag.” Hustle culture makes it seem like success is measured only in how fast you can fill your calendar or how much money you can bring in.

And yes, those first clients matter. Getting paid for your work matters. But the problem is, short-term wins often don’t add up to a sustainable practice.

Many doulas end up stuck because:

They chase clients without building systems that sustain them.
They underprice or discount to “get booked,” then feel resentful or burnt out.
They hesitate to invest in mentorship or business guidance, even though that’s what would actually move them forward.

The result? A cycle of hustling for the next client, never quite feeling stable, and sometimes even walking away from doula work altogether.

What Breaks the Cycle

Sustainability in birthwork isn’t about hustling harder. It’s about:

Clarity: knowing who you serve and how you want to serve them.
Confidence: standing in your value and creating boundaries that protect you.
Connection: building trust with families and with your doula community.
Clients: knowing that the people you serve are the heart of your practice.
Community: surrounding yourself with support so you don’t carry it all alone.

When you invest in yourself, whether through mentorship, guides, or training, you’re not just spending money. You’re shortening your learning curve, protecting your energy, and laying the foundation for longevity in this work.

An Invitation

You don’t have to stay stuck in short-term wins. The Doula’s Notebook Collection was created to give new doulas the answers, clarity, and encouragement I wish I had when I started. Explore the eBook From Training to Clients to help you build confidence and start serving.

Written by Kendra of Heart-Centered Birthwork™

Each reflection is a note from my own experience. I share these lessons to help doulas and birthworkers create sustainable practices that honor both families and themselves.

Explore more tools and reflections at Heart-Centered Birthwork™