You're Never Going To Make Money Online
You're Never Going To Make Money Online...so they say.
Sometimes, someone finds you at just the right spot during your day or week, that their negativity can hit you right where it hurts.
This happened to me yesterday.
I have a very blunt family member, who I love very much, but sometimes he can be a Negative Nigel. Usually, when someone tries to pass their pessimism onto me, I go completely unfazed. But this time, his words stung, and they've stuck with me for the past 24 hours.
Has this ever happened to you...
Someone knows that you “work online,”and they want to know more. They want to know exactly what it is that you do.
By this time, you've been asked a million questions by people and you know that no matter how well you try to explain to the person, they won't “get it.” So, you think,“Why bother?”
But, instead of being rude, you cheerfully explain that you have a website, you are a blogger, you work in affiliate marketing, etc etc etc.
They stare at you blankly.
“But how do you make money,” they ask.
You try to explain it as they continue with their deer-in-the-headlights look.
After you attempt to give them all the details, you can tell they still don't quite understand, yet they scoff at you with negativity.
“Sorry, but I don't think that isgoing to work,” they say about your online endeavors.
“You're not going to make any money at that,” they predict.
Then you go on to explain that you do, in fact, already make money...you just want to make more.
Crickets.
Have you ever had family, friends, or maybe even your spouse be less than supportive of your online business? Have you had people tell you that nobody really makes money online, or that it's all just a scam?
If so, don't let that discourage you.
I will admit, even though I've already had some success online (not nearly as much as I want, though; I haven't met my goals yet!), I was taken aback and felt very sad when I had a close family member say some negative things to me yesterday. He thought I was going to fail. He just didn't get it.
Yes, he's from an older generation, and he doesn't completely understand what I was trying to tell him, but his complete lack of faith in what I'm doing made me a little sad.
I guess, at the end of the day, we all just want the approval of the people we love.
Don't Ask, Don't Tell
And that's why I suggest that you have sort of a “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” policy about your online work.
I'm not saying it has to be a secret. It doesn't. But, the first people I go to when I need to discuss work stuff are my online community members here at Wealthy Affiliate. We are all going through the same stuff, and they just...get me.
The truth is, MOST people don't understand the internet, websites, and marketing. They just know that the computer is there when they want to buy something. They don't totally “get” how it all works and relates to each other. They don't “get” how people actually make the money working online.
The more you try to explain, the more confusing it can be for the average person.
So, going forward, my response is, “I'm a blogger.” Most people at least get that. Or, “I do freelance graphic design,” or, “I'm a freelancer.”
I'm so happy to have the Wealthy Affiliate community not only to chat with, but to learn from. The success stories here are plentiful, and inspiring...don't you think?
The next time someone throws negativity your way about an online business, share some Wealthy Affiliate success stories with them! That will quiet them right down.
I'd love to hear whether or not youshare much of your online biz with family and friends. If you do, how do they react? Are they supportive? Do they truly “get” what you do?
Share in the comments below!
Recent Comments
31
Hi Kelli,
I still consider myself a newbie, joined this wonderful community in July. My husband totally supports me. My kids--I don't think it really matters, yet. I tried presenting this to my 26-year-old daughter, but she's leaving for Thailand in January, so now is probably no the best of time for that.
I've tried telling my father what it is new I am doing, but he knows nothing of the internet, therefore shows absolutely no interest, which is fine with me.
If people ask me what I do, I've been answering 'affiliate marketing'. But I think your "I'm a blogger" answer might be better. I do, do graphic design on the side, so I could also use that one.
I believe once we start making good money, the naysayers will find something else/new to nay about. I think that is just nature.
The very best to you Keli, and keep reaching for those stars,
I'm somewhat recent to WA, so things really haven't been taking off yet, but I've been tight-lipped as to how I've been spending my time since a job loss earlier this summer. Part of it is some people I know have more "traditional work" mindsets. It's either show up and work for someone, or they will play devil's advocate as to why doing a program like this or going out on my own won't work, etc.
Part of me thinks there's a degree of skepticism about a program like this considering how many spam programs are out there, or their knowledge of what you can use the internet for is more limited that those of us who see it as a possible source of opportunity.
Try not to let what happened get you down too much. Keep on doing what you're doing!
Thanks so much, and you hit the nail exactly on the head. A lot of people think there's only one way to make money, the traditional way. Clock in, work your fingers to the bone, clock out, collect your pay check. You're totally right! I hope you succeed with WA! Let those success stories motivate you! :-)
I am fortunate that I have the support of my husband and children and their partners. In fact my daughter has followed in my footsteps and joined WA. I do have other family but never see them so not explanation necessary. I am sorry that your family member brought you down yesterday, that is harsh. All you can do is prove him wrong.
Mary
Thanks Mary! My mom and I are also a mom/daughter Wealthy Affiliate team and it's so nice to have her (and my dad's) support. :-)
I'm so glad you have good family support! :-)
They do not want to see you succeed but their words can be your motivation to prove them wrong.
So sorry that is happening to you Kelli, but just know you are not alone. It happens to a lot of people in this business.
The negative people could never do this because they can't see how anyone could possibly make money just "playing" on the computer.
Just try to let it roll off your back and don't share what you do with anyone who doesn't know how it works.
Go make more money! That's the best way to beat the negativity!
Great post I really don't talk about it. I think with a lot of people they know about scams online so to them if it's a way to make money online it's a scam to them.
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I have friends that have told me that working online does not work but I'm almost there to prove them wrong. Like you say in your post, sometimes people just don't get it - even though they see it everyday. I try to explain how I'm getting traffic that will eventually convert but it's ok. Just stay focused and motivated, one day you will prove all of them wrong and then they will want to join you.
Just be the leader you want to be and stay focused and friendly I guess lol :) cheers Kelli.
Aww thanks so much and good luck! :-)