The Hurrier I Go, The Behinder I Get
It's time for me to give everyone here at WA a progress report, since I've just completed Course 2. It's been an experience, to say the least. Until I began studying at WA University, I had no idea of just how little I knew about so many of the subjects covered thus far in Certification training.
I never felt that I had extra time to spend surfing the web, or interacting with others on any of the social media platforms. I worked long hours, and my free time was spent with family or enjoying my favorite recreational activities. Through these first two courses, I've learned just how large that obstacle really is, and how time consuming it is to fill that gap in my knowledge.
Being retired, I thought I could devote more time to the training than anyone who was still working full time. Instead of six months to a year, I should be able to get through all the training in two or three months. Right? And have one or two websites that were fully functional, and maybe, just maybe, beginning to generate revenue.
To say I was wrong about that would be a gross understatement!
In my defense, I've been hindered by my lack of technical knowledge. I was completely ignorant about so many things. "SEO" was gibberish to me. What's a "CEE-OH"? And don't even get me started on LSI, long-tail keywords, or Meta Text! Huh?
Okay, maybe I'm just slow! One course per month translates to two more months just to finish the Certification courses, and I don't even want to think about Affiliate Bootcamp! I'm afraid to so much as look at that, because it could take me another ten months to complete. I won't live forever!
Today, as I read the posts from the kind folks in my group, it struck me that every day, seven days a week, I start the same way. I read every post, from start to finish. Every last one of them! Most days, that's what happens to my first hour of WA training.
Worse yet, I usually follow all the links to additional training. Sometimes I watch the videos, sometimes I read the tutorials, and sometimes, when I feel that I'm falling too far behind, I just bookmark them. If the training looks especially interesting, I can't resist, even though I'm well aware that I'm not ready to use the knowledge I gain there. At least, not yet!
The WA community has been the most pleasant surprise of my educational journey. It boggles my mind - so many friendly, helpful people from all walks of life, from all around the world. And they're all willing to help me! Amazing! I don't have the words to express how grateful I am for everyone's help. It is a humbling experience.
Thank you! One and all, thank you!
The reason I'm here at WA instead of any other "opportunity" is because I knew immediately that this was a genuine training program, and not a get rich quick scam. Most of us feel that way, I believe. Promises of overnight riches is simply "fool's gold", and not worth consideration.
So, I will continue to plug along, lesson by lesson, and getting further and further behind, because I keep following all those threads of knowledge offered by fellow WA members.
I wouldn't want it any other way!
For anyone still reading, and still awake, a special heartfelt thanks for your interest and support.
Frank
Recent Comments
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You are following the path that works for you! Everyone has a different way of learning and a different timetable to get things done. You'll find as time goes on you won't need to read every post from start to finish - you'll be familiar with the information and won't need the same level of encouragement as you do when you're brand new. The fact that you are will to take on all this instead of just watching a baseball game or something is fantastic - be proud of yourself and keep up the good work!
Thank you Jeannine. I'm actually a quick study, but I didn't know how MUCH I didn't know about all the tools available, and instructions on their use. This community is like "icing on the cake" that is WA, There is SO much help here. Being my inquisitive self, I can't resist licking the icing before the cake is finished. But it is all good!
I'm more intent on learning this properly than quickly, and enjoying the journey along the way.
Thank you for your kind comments.
Frank
Hi Frank,
I had to laugh, it's a "me too" scenerio, it may take us longer than we expected, and yeah, will we live so long..... oh well, it's an interesting ride, and information is never lost, it follows us where ever we may be.
Don't loose hope, know that others are following in your footsteps and learn from your successes and failures.
Great blog.
Cheers Jae
Thank you, Jae. I intended more humor to be apparent, but I'm still honing my writing skills, you know! I know that I've learned a great deal, but to follow the training successfully takes time. I one studies, watches the videos, and actually DOES all the assignments, it's very time consuming. That wasn't meant as a complaint, merely a statement of fact. I see posts from members only two or three weeks into the training who say they've already finished Course 3. Really? If so, how much did they skip, or fail to retain? But I never intended that post to sound as though I was giving up. I've simply been amazed at how thorough training is, and following others' informational posts is just icing on the cake! I'm the type that goes back over information if I think I might have missed anything of importance.
"God, please give me patience"
And give it to me right now!
I'm just eager to learn, and wish I could absorb it all at once, but I know it will take time to do it properly. I will take the time, and enjoy the journey. Thank you for your comments.
Frank
Ps. I think I need to post an amendment!
Hi Frank,
There was nothing wrong with your post, I, like you, have to read & re-read things to make sure it goes into long term memory. No one is pushing you on this platform, everyone has their own speed for reasons only known to them, and that's O.K.
Love talking to you,
Cheers Jae
Hello again, Jae. I know what slows me down as far as course completion, but I don't want to change anything. I enjoy the communication with nice folks like you, and I take advantage of the extra training other members offer. I know that I don't really NEED that training yet, but I want to know everything!
Success with WA isn't necessarily measured by financial rewards. At least, not to me. And I think you feel much the same. Yes, I want to learn how to make money with affiliate marketing, but not for the sake of the money itself. Proving to myself that it is possible to earn a living online, and being able to pass that knowledge on to my children is my strongest motivation.
If I can show them it can be done, and show them how to do it, I can leave them a legacy that will keep on giving long after my estate is gone.
And if this program provides enough extra money, I not only want to travel, but I want to own another race horse!
Lofty goals, I know. But there's nothing wrong with that, is there? Lol
Frank
Hey Frank, well that is interesting, you hanker for another horse?
Don't they just gobble up your money?
I love that you're leading by example, to show your children how to achieve a stable living.
I also would love to encourage my children, however one may take up the baton, remains to be seen.
Cheers Jae
Hey Jae! A PET horse is very expensive, but a racehorse can be profitable, if you're lucky, and know what you're doing. More important than luck is dealing with honest people. I raced for 18 years, broke even two of those years, and made a profit the remaining 16 years. But, it's a risky business at best.
It's also the most fun I've ever had with my clothes on! Lol
I hope that humor isn't too off color. If it is, please say so and I'll refrain from such lines in the future.
I'm unwilling to risk savings in another racing venture. In the past, I only risked disposable income, but I don't have that kind of income since retirement.
I'm working toward having that disposable income through WA.
It is such a pleasure chatting with you!
Frank
Hi Frank,
No your humor is just fine by me. Interesting subject, so you did make good money off a race horse? Another way of gambling I suppose, but so much more fun.
I do hope you make enough money to go forward with your passion. Could be a great niche....
A pleasure in chatting with you too.
Cheers Jae
Not every horse was profitable, but the successful horses offset the other's failure enough to make it profitable sixteen of eighteen years. The other two were minimal loss years.
And loads of fun and excitement!
Frank
Hi Frank! You are doing just fine. A beautiful thing about Wealthy Affiliate is that you get to work at your own pace. You are not behind you are still on the journey and with perseverance you will reach your destination.
Luna
Thank you, Luna. I don't think my feeble attempt at humor came through! It's a lot to absorb, but I'm loving every minute of it!
Frank
Thank you! I meant that as "tongue-in-cheek"
It's a lot to learn, but I'm really enjoying myself, and the WA community is awesome!
Frank
I know. I love tongue in cheek. I did live improv comedy for four years. Your title totally caught my eye. Very catchy and brainy. You should use that when it fits In without overdoing it you know.
Live improv comedy? Awesome! Do you still perform?
I have many, many more lines! Lol You'll see one in my next post. I hope you like it as well.
And, thank you!
Frank
Non stop in daily life. My brother wants me to stop pronto!! He’s an engineer. So of course. I can’t help it. It’s just the way my brain works. I’ll read your post later when I get a chance. Got my mom today. Got a potential first affiliate and waiting to really talk to her.
Thanks, Mike. YOU are one of the reasons I'm taking more time to complete the lessons! I read ALL your posts. You have so much information to offer.
I meant this post to be a little humorous, because it seems that every time i learn ONE thing, I need to learn two or three more to go with it. But I'm loving the journey.
Frank
Ps. "Slow" was supposed to be funny. I missed the mark!
Mike, in addition to Kyle, Carson, and Jay, I've discovered several other members who are virtual encyclopedias of knowledge. You are one of the "leaders" I follow. So much knowledge!
Thank you for all the information and guidance you provide.
You may no know just how much it's appreciated.
Thank you!
Frank
Frank, you are progressing fantastically. I can't begin to tell you what an inspiration this post has been for me. The fact that you have so much energy and enthusiasm to learn and grow is way beyond most. Don't kid yourself, this stuff is not easy and is very time-consuming. Congratulations to you my friend. Keep Plugin.
Damo
You're right, Damo. It ain't easy! But I'm enjoying the challenge. My progress through the courses is only slowed down a little by all the field trips I keep taking through members' posts. But it's all information that I'll need.
I think you're the kind of guy I would enjoy hanging with - steaks on the grill, a few cold beers - life is good!
Thanks.
Frank
Frank, I could have been reading my own post! I feel exactly the same way. I'm only on lesson 6 of the 2nd course, so I'm poking behind you. My short term goal is to get images on every page of my website by 1/15. I am going to be away from the computer for a few days this week, so I'll really have to hustle to reach that goal when I get back.
Maybe it's our age and lack of technical expertise that makes us slow, but our determination will get us there. Carol
I can't speak for you Carol, but I refuse to ever let my age slow me down. The technology is challenging, but I enjoy the challenge, and I will "Get'er done". My inquiring mind takes me on side trips to obtain training that I'm not really ready for yet, but it's just so doggoned interesting!
Carol, I'm not overly religious, so please don't misinterpret this. Having divorced after 27 years, I was a little lost. Then, in a manner that defies all the laws of probability, I met someone. She's considerably younger than me, but she tells me, with a big smile, that I'm the youngest old man she's ever known. I'll take that as a compliment!
As long as we don't become frustrated or discouraged, we'll be fine. I know we can do it!
Frank
PS. "Slow" referred to my progress, not my mind! Lol
Congrats on meeting your special someone!
When I referred to "our age" I was comparing us retired folks to the younger WA members who are more "with it" in terms of technology.
I, too, was referring to my progress, not either my own speed or my mind! Sorry if I didn't make that clear. I don't feel or act my physical age most of the time, and I was not intending to infer that we are "slow" physically or mentally.
I do become frustrated when the computer doesn't do what I think it should, but with the support and assistance from the community, it doesn't last long.
Our wonderful community also helps when discouragement rears its ugly head. How can we remain frustrated or discouraged when we have so many helpful friends reaching out to help us and cheering us on?
Thanks for the clarification.
Carol, I know exactly what you mean. Sometimes I want to kick this computer in the seat of its pants! But, that's the price we pay for the technology, I guess. I'm having a blast with WA. I don't think these courses are designed for speed. I believe Kyle and Carson want to be thorough.
I read posts from members who are "completing" an entire course in a few days. I jokingly say I'm slow only because I want to learn. I don't think anyone can do all the assignments that quickly, do you? Anyway, I certainly hope I didn't come across the wrong way.! I was raised "southern gentleman" style, and never want to offend anyone, especially someone as nice as you!
If I managed to offend you, it was unintentional, and I ask that you accept my apologies. Please?
Thank you.
Frank
Hi, Frank. I, too, am having a ball with WA and love to learn. I agree that the courses were designed to be digested and mastered, not raced through. When there is a post included in the lesson, it takes me several days to do the research and write the article because I want to be thorough and write something that I can be proud of. I wouldn't want to slop through it just to get the lesson finished.
You know it's funny, I was concerned that I had offended you! I'm not sure what you're referring to that you think you might have offended me, but rest assured, you did not.
As you get to know me better, you'll discover that I'm pretty open minded for an old geezer like me! And you'll also find that I like to make people laugh.
Carol
Hello again, Carol! I was afraid that you had misinterpreted my tone. I have a warped sense of humor. My daughter thinks I'm being morbid when I make jokes about getting old and dying. To me, I know that death is inevitable, but whether I cry about that or laugh about it is MY choice. One of my favorite movie lines is Russell Crowe in "Gladiator. "Death smiles at us all, and the best a man can do is smile back." I choose to laugh.
As in: I'm so old I don't even like to buy green bananas anymore.
Frank
Don't worry, Frank. Your humor shines through. I have a friend whose sense of humor is wacky like mine, and his wife says he's being sarcastic. I tell him that's just the type of sense of humor he has.
Dear Frank,
I am of the older generation. My personal life is not where I want it, hence the change. You are not "behind" anyone. You are right along side yourself, where you are is where you need to be. You would be shocked if you could look around and see how many others are in line right next to you, struggling, and how many are behind. How many people who seem so on top of everything have deep fears of being an imposter.
You are not an imposter, not in the wrong place, and certainly not failing. Maybe you arrange your work schedule here in the wrong order. Do the most important things first, set a specific time allotment for all the rest, put yourself first. Maybe it would help to just stop and ask yourself, "Why is it so hard for me to put me first?" As a career family man, you probably have never done that. Maybe you are reacting to a fear of failure and using avoidance to cope, I don't know, I don't know you. Just a few things to consider.
The ones I feel sorry for are those who quit.
You, I admire for your honesty and effort.
Morgan
Thank you, Morgan. Gosh, I hope I didn't come across in any bad way. That certainly was not my intention. WA has kept me busy because I want to learn everything I possibly can. I was sort of "tongue-in-cheek" referring to all the things I've been taking the time to absorb, even though I haven't reached them yet in training. This fantastic community has so much to offer!
Quit? Not a chance! It's not in my DNA to quit. I just get off track from jumping ahead. Not in the training modules, just taking in the information being shared by the community.
Fortunately, I don't need to generate income from this program. I want to, of course, but I also want to do it right the first time. I've found it's much more time efficient to do it right the first time, instead of needing to go back and fix an error.
Thank you for the support and kindness.
Frank
Ps. I'm actually pretty smart. The "slow" reference was joking.
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I was right where you are a couple of years ago Frank, and to make matters more frustrating I've always considered myself a technical guy. The last 10 to 15 years before I retired, I was pretty much on a computer all day, but that was for using various manufacturing control software.
But like you, I finally realized that when it comes to living on the internet, I was a digital newbie. Sounds like you avoided getting sucked into one of the many over hyped, under delivered programs that are out there.
I wasn't so fortunate, so I spent a lot of time I could have been here training on the WA platform sucked down a rat whole that wasted both time and money.
So give yourself a break Frank. Yea ... you are a digital newbie, and you'll need the time to catch up. But trust me it will happen as long as you stick with it.
My first recommendation is to control the amount of time you spend responding to the WA messages in your Inbox. Every thing of value can be located when you really need it by using the WA search bar.
Stay focused on the Cert Training using the WA search bar to find clarifying blogs and tutorials that are on subject for additional clarification. And don't even think about jumping over to Bootcamp until you have completed Cert Training.
Take the advice of our WA Pros. Robert is one of my favorites: Bootcamp or Certification Courses Which to Choose First Hope this helps.