Are You Afraid of the Google Rollercoaster?
Published on March 26, 2026
Published on Wealthy Affiliate — a platform for building real online businesses with modern training and AI.
I remember back in 2018-ish when everyone was screaming about the latest google update and how it was wrecking online business forever. I had just started my affiliate marketing journey in 2017. Thankfully I was too busy learning how to build this business to listen to that noise. It happens every few years and everyone says it's the end of the world.
Now, I totally understand the very real sinking feeling of a massive drop in traffic. But what if that 40% traffic drop is actually good for your business?
Most people panic. This is to be expected. Every time we roll up on a chaotic accident scene I'm reminding my crew "It's normal for them to be going crazy. We're paid not to." When an algorithm update hits and chaos ensues, there's a whole segment of online business owners who will throw their hands in the air and quit because they think "the game is rigged."

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Pump the brakes. You're going to steady the course and outlast this. An algorithm update is just system update. Google is just going through its spring cleaning ritual. Do you see Jay running for the hills? Or do you see him doubling down with more content ideas to put together?
Firefighting is dynamic. The wind shifts. Suddenly there's news that someone is still inside the house. You don't abandon your plan you just adjust your position. So If Google shifts the "wind," and the entire bottom falls out from your business, then you weren't a business owner, you’re a tenant.
Harsh right?
But it's the reality check you needed to diversify. Explore YouTube (it's GREAT), Get traffic from Pinterest and other social media. Build that email list.
If you’ve been writing with genuine interest and honesty, then your site has a "trust floor." You might dip, but you won't disappear. Be stubborn with your success. Start owning that relationship with your audience so they're looking for you by name instead of landing on you by chance google search.
Google is a partner, not a boss. Don't let a temporary graph fluctuate your permanent vision. Keep your head down, keep providing value, and let the rollercoaster do its thing while you build your asset.
YOU GOT THIS!
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