I get it and you are one fun writer.

Well ... I for one think you're being a little too critical on yourself. No one said this was going to happen overnight ... in fact just the opposite. Sure you came to WA with previous internet experience, and might have set your expectations very high.

I'm going to comment on your list above in reverse order:

> Not sure how Jaxxy would be a distraction. If you are using Jaxxy Pro it's the best keyword research tool on the web and keyword research is is the core of the process for creating good content. So NO ... not a distraction.

> Searching for a good image also adds great value to your content, and granted can be time consuming unless you already have a bank of images or are a great photographer. Either way ... takes time, yes ... avoidable distraction, NO. It's part of the process.

> Avoid learning something new might need a behavior change depending on your current skill level. If you need a specific skill that you have not yet mastered and that is holding back your website or efforts to increase your traffic, then YES ... do the training.

> Searching the internet for content ideas ... NO not a distraction. It's part of the process of providing your prospective customers with good content ... solving a problem or filling a need.

> Checking Google Analytics might be an avoidable distraction, but only if you are being excessive. If you added value to your website then it's seems appropriate to see if the new content has accomplished the goal ... more traffic. Seems like that's part of our business process.

> Checking emails way too often ... YES and YES. That is a distraction. Getting too hung up on improving ones Rank IS a distraction. I've been told this by many more accomplished members than I, and it's something all new members need to manage better. Here is a case where "fake till you make it" really should not apply. Once you make it your "pay it forward" contribution will have so much more impact on new members.

Now if I could just consistently do what I just said!!!

Great post and it is easy to get caught up in the wrong stuff, I have a specific time set aside for WA emails, social stuff and new content and research, you will there

There is so much to learn Sandy, that I think we just become overwhelmed. Then the time wasting starts.
Because there is so much to absorb, it's easier to do something else, instead of getting on with the daily lessons.
I find myself doing the exact same thing.
I hope there is an answer, because I'm struggling too.
Garth

I would have fired myself. I too waste a lot of time, over thinking the writing and looking for pictures.

I would have been fired a long time ago. probably my first week. Great post Sandy. Thank you:)

I would be fired too! I have not held myself up to my goals at all lately due to external distractions!

I think I would fire me for allowing so many interruptions to keep me from my goals. I SO know what you mean. Now you have me thinking about a nap. :-)

Kicking your self will never help you get where your wanting to go have some compassion for your self
If you are struggling maybe my blog post here will help inspire you

https://my.wealthyaffiliate.com/bazboy247/blog/what-lies-in-the-stillness-that-we-fear-to-look-at

Barry

I once heard a saying that went something like this: "If you will be the toughest boss you've ever had, you will be the richest employee you've ever been". Maybe it's time to crack the whip on yourself. (Not sure how that would work exactly:) )