Internet Marketing Benefits – Inspiration to Keep Going!
May 3rd, 2010 | 49 comments
Today is my first full day of work in about a week because we just moved into a new home. This whole process has reminded me of how lucky I am to be a full-time Internet marketer. Here are a few of the reminders I’ve had in this past week:
1. I can cut my work time down to about 30 minutes a day for an entire week and I still make good money. Those 30 minutes are simply to keep up with support (email/tickets) and could even be outsourced, I just choose not to do that.
2. I can move ANYWHERE I want! You can get Internet Access in all developed Countries these days and even in some third-world Countries. This means I can move anywhere, anytime I want. This also means I get to pick and choose where I want my son to go to School! In the case of this move, we were able to get a home in one of the best school districts in the Country!
3. I’ve only been a full-time Internet Marketer for about 2 years (part time for first 3 while in the Army) and I can easily afford the mortgage on a $250,000 home. The home we just purchased is not that high, but if the lender would have had a better understanding of my business and allowed a larger loan, I could have afforded a 1/4 million dollar home. (Obviously home markets vary from one area to the next, but here in Indiana a 1/4 mil. home is very nice.) How many JOBS out there do you know of where you are making enough money to afford a $250,000 home after only 2 years of full-time employment? I know of one and I’m in that profession 
These are just three of the MANY benefits to working online full-time, but I’ve really been reminded of these three in particular quite a bit lately.
The purpose of this blog post is to inspire you to keep going if you’re like the thousands who contemplate giving up.
LISTEN, Internet Marketing is a VERY real profession that has more profit potential and future growth than MOST other professions out there. But it’s just like anything else. There is a learning curve! Fortunately that learning curve is shorter than most jobs. You can be full-time in only a couple years… even less is some cases.
Most people quit before giving it a real chance. Don’t be one of those people!
I just listed three of the MANY luxuries me and my family enjoy with the Internet Marketing lifestyle. I am NOT any smarter than the average person. I barely made it through High-School (seriously) and I don’t have a college education. I’m NOT smarter than the average person!
I don’t have some extraordinary, special marketing mind. I was never in marketing or advertising before starting with this online stuff. Marketing ideas didn’t come easy to me. I just learned what worked for others, one thing at a time, and learned little by little. I just try to remember what works and what doesn’t work.
My point is I’m HONESTLY not “special,” smart or gifted with a marketing mind. I’m just a normal guy who REALLLLLLY wanted this lifestyle to work and decided from the beginning that I WAS going to make this work! I failed and failed and failed and failed and failed… then I failed some more! I failed enough for me, my brothers, sisters, you, your brothers and sisters all combined.
At first I spent more money than I made. A while later I started making a little. It took a long time, but I never gave up and now I make very good money and my income in almost constantly growing.
So if you’re one of the thousands of people who are thinking about giving up, please keep these words in mind and be sure to read my favorite quote of all time below:
“Brick walls are there for a reason. The brick walls aren’t there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to show us how badly we want things…the brick walls are there to stop the people who don’t want it badly enough!”
– Randy Pausch
img credit: the trial
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3rd May, 2010 at 3:14 pm
Hey Josh,
That really was inspiring. Want to post some photos of the new house. That would probably be motivating as well
Take care,
Bryan
3rd May, 2010 at 3:17 pm
I’m glad it was inspiring
No pics until I get some landscaping done and get things finished outside. I’ll probably be posting on facebook once that is done.
3rd May, 2010 at 3:25 pm
Josh,
Thanks for the inspirational reminder! After a long career as a designer and marketer offline, I’ve finally made the decision to dive into IM full-time (beginning later this month).
Congrats on the new home! I know you were in Indy…are you still a Hoosier?
Congrats again!
David Coleman
3rd May, 2010 at 3:26 pm
Josh, cool story. I’m not FT yet, still have a day job, but hope to be someday.
3rd May, 2010 at 3:28 pm
Hi Josh,
as a part of your ‘Fan Family’ I wish you and your family all the best in the new house. Enjoy it!
Lots of sunshine from Italy
Rieke
3rd May, 2010 at 3:32 pm
Hi Josh,
This is a great post, and so inspiring to those who are feeling the need to bail because nothing is working and they’re not making any money.
I remember those days well, but like you, I had a fire inside me and I was so determined to make this work that I stuck it out.
This post is timely for me because like you, my income is enabling us to upgrade to a $300,000 dollar home and we’re now in the selling/buying process. Of course I have no intention of spending that much, lol, but it makes you feel good to know you can afford it if you want it
Melissa
3rd May, 2010 at 3:34 pm
Really happy for you, Josh!
Actually, TODAY is my very first day of full-time IM employment! To be able to work whenever and wherever is truly a gift. I’ll never go back to the 9-5 grind, EVER.
Cheers to you!
~~Lisa
3rd May, 2010 at 3:35 pm
Hey Josh,
)
Inspirating post. I think moving into a new home gives you pause to really appreciate what you have (and give thanks that you don’t have to move again anytime soon!
A version of #2 has always been motivation for me – not only can I live anywhere, but I can travel anywhere and still work my business. It’s the vacations to interesting spots that get my creative juices flowing and help me write articles and blog posts and start on new products.
Cheers,
Peggy Baron
3rd May, 2010 at 3:37 pm
Hey Josh,
The best perk of all when it comes to being a full-time Internet marketer vs. a job with an employer is FREEDOM! You control who you work with, what work you do, when you work, and to a large degree, how much you make. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Congrats on your new home.
3rd May, 2010 at 3:39 pm
Josh;
I am really excited for you. I think your personal home success is great — but it is really the smallest part what you have accomplished.
From my perspective, your greatest accomplishment is the number of people that you have helped make it on line. That is the thing that matters more than all of the new houses and fast cars.
Your success is well-deserved, sir. An I can promise you that because of the WAY that you do business, this is only the beginning.
Best regards,
Mark
P.S. What does Aaron think of the house?
3rd May, 2010 at 3:41 pm
Your point about failure is crucial here. Far too often, people, especially in the IM niche see “gurus” running around in expensive cars, living in huge houses, and to be frank, most of the larger name celebs are clear about how much effort and trial and error it took for them to be successful.
It’s great that you are so candid about that.
Cheers,
Kurt
3rd May, 2010 at 3:43 pm
Thanks everyone!
David – Yep, still a proud Hoosier. I’m a 40 second walk from the Indianapolis line, in Fishers… right by Geist Reservoir.
Mark – Thanks for the very kind words and thanks for all of the support over the years. Glad to call you a friend.
3rd May, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Congratulations on your new home Josh and on failing so much too!
I guess the ability to fail and keep going is what works eh?
Also, this bit struck me, “decided from the beginning that I WAS going to make this work!”
Exactly – you DECIDED to succeed. Most don’t – they just give it a shot, maybe even a few shots and perhaps their BEST shots.
Which is different from shooting until you succeed.
Encouraging for the rest of us!
Tx
3rd May, 2010 at 3:53 pm
Hey Josh,
Congratulations on your new home. I hear that moving house can be pretty stressful. At least it is here in the U.K. But that’s probably just down to how our system works!
It sounds like things are going well for you. That’s great. And I love the quote at the end of your post.
Myles
3rd May, 2010 at 4:01 pm
thank you for sharing Josh. One thing I like most about you is your intregrity and honesty about this profession. I so agree the learning curve is long and tough, and yes its true you will spend more than you make in the beginning. But the end result if one persists and does not quit is absolutely a income that can change your life. Americas average folk need to know about this profession that can give freedom to anyone who truly will go for it . Internet Marketing and NetworkMarketing are the answer.
3rd May, 2010 at 4:07 pm
Hi Josh!
Excellent commentary! I think the most inspiring for me is the fact that you’re not in a multi-million dollar ‘mansion’ and telling me I can do it too! I like that what you bought in the way of a home really is do-able for anyone who simply stays with it long enough for the ‘magic’ to happen…and your words are real too, not some pie-in-the-sky stuff…and that’s why I’m a follower of yours and a subscriber to your blog because it’s all real, do-able and motivating!
All the best and have fun in your new home!
Dan
3rd May, 2010 at 4:07 pm
Josh,
Totally agree with what Mark says—how you’ve helped people with your open and honest delivery has made a big difference.
As I’ve prepared myself to make the move into full-time IM, I’ve found that a HUGE part of the game is learning who to trust and who NOT to trust. Unfortunately as we know, there are so many people who are just looking to take advantage of the inexperience of others.
I’ve been fortunate enough to find (and follow) honest and respectful people like yourself, Mark Mason, and others (like PotPieGirl), that have helped tremendously in my IM education.
I’ll be looking to do the same for others some day!
Thanks again!
3rd May, 2010 at 4:09 pm
Thanks Josh, it’s tough sometimes wondering if this is really going to work! I have so many great ideas to go on, but just need to keep at it. My brother in law participated in an Iron Man this weekend, 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26 mile run, all in the same day, and he FINISHED, if he can do that, I can definitely get myself going in internet marketing. Congratulations on the new house, hopefully soon I will be moving into my new place!
3rd May, 2010 at 4:14 pm
Thanks for the inspiration Josh. I to am still working at it part-time. It’s great to hear of your success. Sticking with it is the the key. By the way thanks for being so straight up about how long it took you to grow your business. I think so many people are looking for a “magic pill” and you have always let me know just how it really is. Thanks and have fun unpacking
3rd May, 2010 at 4:18 pm
So Josh, you live near Geist….got any Colts or Pacers as neighbors?
3rd May, 2010 at 4:24 pm
At the beach currently, business in a binder next to me and ocean waves out the window where I am sitting working. It’s amazing.
3rd May, 2010 at 4:28 pm
Hey Josh
Great post. I have been at this for about 6 months now and the money is starting to trickle in finally. The potential and advantages of internet marketing are awesome. Where else could you start a business with just a domain and hosting account for $20? And actually you dont even need that! I know the only way I can fail is if I quit. I will reach my goals.
Good luck with your new house!
Steve
3rd May, 2010 at 4:36 pm
Congratulations on your new home and thanks for making this post to help inspire others! That is awesome!
Like Mark said, you are just good people and that is what makes your success so great. Thanks for teaching so much!
I’ve told you before that Dr. Pausch’s quote is one of my faves, as well. I keep it linked from my home page – and it goes to a post where I have the video embedded and when you press play – it goes RIGHT to that quote. Randy’s expressions really, really help to drive the quote home!
Thanks for reminding me of it. (It’s like that picture on your living room wall that you see every day – but, you don’t really see, you know?)
Between Lisa’s cool post at the Warrior Forum today and this awesome post of yours – I’m getting really fired up over here!
Thanks to both of you!
3rd May, 2010 at 4:38 pm
@ Bruce – haha no, I’m not water front. Ask me in another year or two when I get my next home and the answer may be different
3rd May, 2010 at 4:57 pm
Josh, that’s awesome. I’m excited for you. I started about a year ago, and my income is just now starting to really roll in…it’s extremely exciting. Instead of buying a house (I’m single and am renting a place with friends), I’m buying a CTS-V in July to celebrate the freedom that I’ve found.
Thanks, Josh!
3rd May, 2010 at 5:26 pm
Thanks for your inspiring blog. It came at a really good time. I needed a little pep talk and to hear that others have had the same struggles as I have.
I’ve been plugging away for about 6 months now with disappointing results, but I really do believe this can work and I’ll just work harder to make sure it does.
Thanks again.
3rd May, 2010 at 5:39 pm
Josh, I really enjoyed reading this post. It’s the kind of thing that keeps me going.
3rd May, 2010 at 7:03 pm
Congradualtions Josh. I’m glad everything is working out well for you and your family.
Looking forward to the weekly posts.
3rd May, 2010 at 7:42 pm
Congratulations Josh…when you jumped from the southside to the northside…you did it right
For ages I was following WAY too many people. There are only so many emails you can read a day and still get things done. I cancelled a lot of subscriptions. You are one of the few that remained. I love everything you write.
It’s so much fun to see someone in Indy doing so well….you’re a great guy to follow.
3rd May, 2010 at 8:16 pm
Josh, I really needed to see a post like this from someone who has not given up when the path got too rough.
I have been having a period in my IM/wiriting career where nothing seems to be coming together and the money has only been a trickle
I’ve been seriously frustrated lately and was considering giving up. But you’ve inspired me to keep going. I feel a breakthrough coming on.
You’ve reminded me why I chose this path. My living situation is not the best ( okay,it’s really bad)so that is my motivation for even attempting this whole “make money online” thing.
I know there’s no other business that could even have the remote possibility of really changing my life in all the ways that it needs to change.
Congratulations on your new home,Josh. Hopefully, I will soon be living in the home of my dreams,too.
You’ve reminded me that it can and will happen as long as I don’t give up too soon.
Thanks
3rd May, 2010 at 8:49 pm
Wow, only 2 years full time? It seems like forever. Of course, I’ve been working this a little over a year and that seems like forever too. Getting comfortable with the technology, learning what’s real and what’s not, starting to drive traffic – - now if only I can get some of that traffic to convert (next phase).
But, I feel better having read this. I’m more like in your first 3 years, squeezing what I can in around my “career” for now. Just want to “retire” in 5 years (meaning work from home full time), and this makes me feel like, yes, it can happen if I keep moving forward. Thanks!
3rd May, 2010 at 8:54 pm
Congrats Josh! I myself just moved into a new house this year too. Although I am not a full time IM’er, it has provided me with a generous second income which has allowed me to get out of debt and have the extra funds for the better things in life. I doubt I’ll ever be full time, but just having a few extra hundred or so a month is awesome.
3rd May, 2010 at 9:03 pm
Always good to be encouraged to continue Josh! Keep it up man. I have often thought that overnight success for a lot of people means a long night, but if we keep doing the right things, break through is inevitable.
3rd May, 2010 at 9:45 pm
Thanks Josh – your story is very motivating. I love hearing success stories – it keeps me motivated. I know this business works for those who give it time and effort – I’m starting to see my business start to grow slowly.
Thanks again for the motivation and enjoy the new house!
3rd May, 2010 at 10:35 pm
Josh,
You deserve ALL of the success you’ve acquired (and then some!)
I’ve been around for 12 years now and you stood out to me from the moment I first “stumbled” across you..
You seem like such a real genuine & sincere guy, and that’s a rarity these days, especially in this industry.
So, thanks! You’re a real inspiration to both newbies and old veterans like me.. (or slightly ‘matured’ as I prefer to say
)..
Keep it up and congrats on the new pad!!
Kate Anderson
3rd May, 2010 at 10:40 pm
Yikes, looks like I entered the name “Josh” into my comment, above.. LOL..
See? I AM old.. yikes..
K..
3rd May, 2010 at 11:28 pm
Hello Josh,
Thanks for this post. It has come at JUST the right time for me! I can really relate to the ‘fail, fail, fail’ thing and the niggling thought that sales and marketing are just not my ‘thing’, but I also realise that those thoughts are just self-defeating and don’t have to be my truth. I will keep trying, because I DO believe that internet marketing is a very real opportunity for me.
God bless,
Valerie
3rd May, 2010 at 11:32 pm
P.S. Josh, I really like your blog – great colours, well presented – a class act!
Valerie
4th May, 2010 at 1:21 am
Congrats on the new home, Josh! I’m getting there slowly but surely. I never imagined when I started that I’d be where I am now, but it seems my dreams just keep getting bigger.
Blessings,
Angie
4th May, 2010 at 3:22 am
Yay, Josh! I am so happy for you and your beautiful family!
The “things” we can buy or have are all fun and good, but in my opinion, nothing beats the PRIDE of being able to take care of your family in such an awesome way.
Because of YOUR hard work, effort, massive action, and determination, your son will never want for anything.
As parents, I think that is the best feeling of all.
And, as a former broke, single mom, I can tell you that it SURE beats that alternative…lol!!
All the best to you and yours – you deserve every ounce of success and happiness that comes your way.
I’ll be watching Facebook for pics
Jennifer
~PotPieGirl
4th May, 2010 at 4:14 am
Seriously, are you stalking me? cause this post is all about me.
4th May, 2010 at 5:31 am
Great post Josh. I too have lost a lot more than I’ve made. I’m just too stubborn to be beaten. I can now see the road a head clearly and the incomes on the horizon!
Ray
4th May, 2010 at 7:58 am
Yeah. Another very great thimng on this thread is the number of other successful people who having made it have joined the conversation.
The thought in my mind before I started reading them is of the great unreality in this thing for ‘normal’ people. I’m still working to build myself back up but I remember when I was a full-time online bookseller which I did for 18 months would say to me: are you working these days or still…the internet thing. I was making for me reasonably comfortable income. I’m a few months off being full-time IM. And looking forward very much to being where you are and quite a number of these other respondents are as well. Thanks for the most inspirational post
4th May, 2010 at 12:41 pm
Josh
Congratulations Josh on the new house! And posting this inspiring article barely a day after the big move shows your serious dedication to your profession.
Me give up? Well it’s been frustrating so far but I am seeing some very positive developments that tell me I must be doing something right. And this inspiring post tells me to keep going.
Jaime
4th May, 2010 at 5:46 pm
Josh,
I’m reading your blog for a long time already, I’m subscribed to it actually, but this if my first comment
This is a really, really, really inspiring post. Your ethical IM concept is extremely attractive as well. Thanks for the information, tools and help that you provide to the whole community via your products. Highly appreciated!
Sincerely,
Ion V.
4th May, 2010 at 6:18 pm
Josh, I really needed to hear this inspirational message today. I’ve been unable to work on my blog due to a family illness but you have reminded me that I can pick it back up when the crisis has passed. Thanks!
12th May, 2010 at 1:31 am
Gone are the days of easy qualification for what we can afford as self-employed individuals. Anyway, I usually find that when I’m low on time and have to really focus, I end up getting as much if not more completed than when I have a full day. It really comes down to just focusing on completing work.
24th May, 2010 at 4:18 pm
Congratulations on your new home and thanks for making this post to help inspire others! That is awesome!
25th May, 2010 at 12:57 am
A little bit of inspiration and motivation goes a long way.
Having dealt with lenders and mortgage companies twice in the past few years I know what you mean about them not understanding – they really have NO clue. What’s funny is the realtor gets it, because they are often in similar income situations … but the banker has no clue that there is this whole world of freelancing and self employment etc… Sometimes I think they are living in a time warp 20 yrs ago or something.