Heaven is a Library

bytradert

190 followers

11 years ago

Six weeks. That is the sum total of formal education possessed by one Thomas A. Edison. He went to school once for a six week period as a young man, decided they were teaching him nothing of use, and concluded that he was better off spending his time helping out with the family business. Of course, young Thomas was not the typical young man, what with conducting scientific and engineering experiments in his parents' basement, but his life story illustrates a very important point.

Many people think that in order to succeed in their own business, they need a certain type of education, and they are correct- it's just that they focus on the wrong kind. You do not need "formal, traditional" education in order to succeed online, and in fact, it may be more hindrance than it i help. Don't take this the wrong way; I have nothing against college education. I myself possess multiple degrees and am in the process of attaining a couple more. Yet, they are relevant to another part of my life that is entirely separate from doing business online - I love my field, but it ain't gonna make me rich.

The problem with traditional higher education is that, by and large, it teaches you how to be a good employee. There is much to be said for being a good employee, and it's a noble and honorable vocation. Yet, you and I are here because we want more. That is where your university diploma fails to prepare you.

What is needed is practical education. Universities would call it Applied (Tack major here). Some paths teach you theory; others teach you how to actually do valuable stuff. This is what is available here at Wealthy Affiliate. Now, mind you, I am nowhere near even the midpoint of the coursework he, but I have found the material practical and actionable. Call it Applied Affiliate Marketing 521 (500 is grad level coursework...).

Of course, you and I shall need longer than six weeks. I account myself a pretty bright fellow, but young Thomas was, quite frankly, a lot smarter than I. Yet, I know more today than I did yesterday, and tomorrow, I will know even more still. It is said of Heaven that in my Father's house, there are many mansions...and that these mansions are made according to the occupants interests. Well, my mansion is a library, and Wealthy Affiliate provides a reasonable fascimile on earth.