A few days ago I reached a cool little milestone on Twitter.com, which was 1,000 followers. Twitter is a fun micro-blogging service, but to simplify the explanation I'll just say that its an awesome communication & networking tool.
You follow people you want to keep up with, and people who want to keep up with you follow you. Its that simple. Reaching the point where you have 1,000 followers is pretty cool, and I've seen several people celebrate the milestone in various ways. Usually they will give a prize to the 1,000th follower.
I decided to do something a little different... π
It seemed unfair to the first 999 people that followed me to give a prize only to the 1,000 person. So instead, I thought it would be fun to celebrate with a Question Game:
Yes, I left myself wide open I know, but I figured it would be fun! π
Here are the questions (and my answers) that followed...
- - -
@aomoon: what is your next 3 year vision of yr online business?
Next 3 years: main focus is building on my community and helping them to identify and achieve their goals. Want more success stories.
@lmd4: Do you have an iPhone or do you want one?
I dont have an iPhone. On my wishlist is blackberry & macbook pro. I usually wait till Black Friday then go crazy with it π
@andreayager: Whats your niche market that brings in your most passive steady income?
The one niche that does best for me, is the niche I happen to be focusing on the most at any given time... Not what you were looking for. I'll say: "hot markets". They rock.
@steveinidaho: Has any particular marketing strategy been a dead-end for you?
Dead-end Marketing Strategy? Hmm. If anything - classifieds.
@angienewton: What is your biggest challenge with working from home?
My biggest challenge with working from home is self-accountability. Takes a lot of discpline to follow through on ideas. I push hard. But my personal struggle with that is why it comes up in my blog posts etc as often as it does.
@TheFitB: What would you consider your biggest breakthrough?
My biggest breakthrough was when I got a long-term vision for my business - and sat down and mapped out a 10-year plan. Everything fell into place after that. Easy filter 4 decision-making: Does this take me closer to my goal, or distract me from it?
@debgallardo: Other than Fast Cash Strategy (LOL), what's the NEXT fastest way to make some quick money online - hopefully duplicatable.
Are you avoiding my Fast Cash Strategy? π - Fast money (besides FCS): Set up website in Hot Market and promote via Google Adwords
@lisastoops: How do you stay focused long enough on one project & make it profitable without getting pulled in a diff direction?
It takes a lot of self-discipline to follow-thru on ideas, and fight distraction & procrastination. You have to stay on top of it. But key is in getting a visual of the RESULT. That vision can serve as a very nice motivator & keep the momentum going.
@lindastacy: If you had to start over, which niche would you choose?
Good question. If I had to start over, I would probably go with the "starting over" niche π On a more serious note, I would choose a super competitive niche with lots of hot market potential - and go big with it.
@lindastacy: The fact that you'd choose a super-competitive niche says a lot about you. Many people would be too scared to go that route.
Competitive is GOOD. More buyers. More affiliates. More affiliate programs. More link partners. More everything. I like more.
@RoyMontero: The reason that Lynn would choose a super-competitive niche is because she knows how to reach the niche in ways that most don't.
I disagree. I dont know any "secrets" that I dont share with my readers. Its not about knowing how... its about DOING it.
@lynntay: what was the one biggest/toughest lesson you learned throughout your years doing this?
Toughest lesson: If I dont take action on my ideas, one year from now all I have to show for it is... ideas. I've kicked myself more than once over that one in the last decade!
@michellegust: what is the best way to go about researching for niches to get into?
When researching niches, 2 things: Keywords & Communities. You can learn what you need from those two sources.
@LindaAbbit: How 2 find a live person 1:1 to answer my Q's re WP.org, behind the dashboard as well as basics so I can control my blog myself
For WordPress help, I would search YouTube, WP/blogging forums, and "free wordpress tutorials" on Google
@bobbloom: here's my question, with no hope of answer... What's your detailed income statement with line items for the year ended July 2008?
You said you dont expect me to answer that question. So I'm curious why you asked it? Truly want to know how much money I've earned YTD, or just curious how I'll respond to the question?
@bobbloom: I'm curious what the detailed breakdown is -- an income analysis by "line of business" + which activities most lucrative. you have a portfolio of online revenue, and I'm curious what comprises that portfolio
This is probably what you're looking for: "How I Make Money Online" It gives a GOOD idea of what I make & how.
- - -
Have one question that you would like to ask? Feel free to leave it in the comment section below! And if you 'tweet', be sure to follow me on Twitter π
Best,
About Lynn Terry
What a cool idea! 1,000 people following you? I haven't even got up to 100 yet. I guess I'm just too busy in too many places but I know I'm interesting enough to follow and there are some really interesting and insightful people I'm currently following.
It took me about 3 months to reach that milestone. It seems to me that conversations work best on Twitter - getting involved in discussions, or starting them yourself. It has been an incredible resource - definitely one of my favorites for networking!
Hey Lynn,
Not being a Twitter, I missed this, but I'll take your challenge and ask my question here instead.
I guess you must suffer form the same problem as many (myself included) of being pulled in many directions at once. You start one project, then something else comes along to distract you into trying that. I know we've discussed this problem before, and overcoming it seems to be one of the key points in being successful.
So, after all that waffle, my question is... roughly what percentage of the projects/ideas you start actually end up as money-makers? Out of the ones that succeed, how many are a quick one-off influx of cash, and how many are provide an ongoing source of revenue (even if small)?
OK, that was two questions, do I get a slap on the wrists π
Ta ra
Alan
Hi Alan,
Yes - distraction is an issue. And I am an "out of sight, out of mind" type of person so I really have to stay on top of it.
To increase productivity, I went with dual widescreen monitors and also the use of whiteboards (to keep things from stacking up on my desk, and to keep everything in plain view).
The percentage of projects I start that actually end up as money-makers... is directly related to the percentage of those projects I actually complete. I dont think I've ever invested myself into a project that ended up as a total flop - unless you count the ones I did not follow-through on.
That sounds like a no-brainer, or an obvious answer, but I hear so many people say "that was a scam" or "that doesnt work" simply because they didnt follow it through to completion. The profit potential is almost always there with legit business ideas.
Most of my ventures result in an ongoing source of revenue - though I am not opposed to the one-off methods. I often tap into "hot markets" that will ultimately fizzle out - when I have time and interest. But my main focus is building out my primary business for long-term success.
Lynn,
I'd be interested in how you budget your time. You talk about procrastination, etc. I've seen you talk about your morning routine. Do you have a daily or weekly schedule?
-- Kurt
Hi Kurt,
I have a very loose schedule, but I do have one. Over the last 11+ years I have tried many things - from micromanaging my time to flying by the seat of my pants (lol).
Currently I have a list of things I tend to every morning over coffee - I call it "my morning work". Once I get through that - which takes an hour or two at most - then I use the rest of the time for creative tasks (brainstorming, writing, networking, etc).
Every week is different, and there are phases depending on my current focus. I start my day with a "quick list" that is right in front of me, and check those things off as I go. Those are usually scheduled things, obligations, or other additions to the "morning work" that must be done before I get back to 'flying' π
I find that personally, I dont like to be so tightly scheduled. It frustrates me. But total flexibility can be counter-productive. So my solution was a combination, and to complete top priority tasks while at my most productive state (mornings).
Hi Lynn,
I have to say that while I usually agree with you:-) - I have to agree with Roy on this one:
"The reason that Lynn would choose a super-competitive niche is because she knows how to reach the niche in ways that most don’t."
The first times i started reading your posts i was like- oh cool that's a good idea- that's a good strategy.
Then i began to read more and more of your stuff and boy- i am impressed, Lynn.
You have one of the most brilliant minds in marketing.
At first glance someone might think- "Oh she's pretty and knows some good stuff."
But once you start to really listen to what you have to say it's like - WOW!
Time after time I have been blown away by your genious marketing mind.
I'll go so far to say that if someone wants to learn how to make money online (with honesty and integrity)- they should spend a good amonut of time reading and doing what you suggest on your blog.
People are really missing out if they don't become an elite member on your forum.
It's sooo cheap for the value that you offer.(I'm not suggesting you raise the price , though;-) -lol)
The weekly brainstorming sessions have given me a clear direction in what I am going to do and how i am going to go about it.
Those live sessions on Thursday have been invaluable.
We can talk with you and get great advice form you- and other members too.
How many times have i wandered off on a tangent and you've got me back on track saying: "What is the goal- what is your objective?"
I just think i really hit the jackpot by finding your forum and blog- and i feel for those that throw themselves into trying to make it online without the great strategies and guidance that you give.
Sorry to be rambling but it's just what i think:-)
All the best,
Eren
Wow Eren... Thank you! I truly appreciate your feedback, and that you have taken the time to share your perspective of me - and of what I offer. Again - thank you. That means a lot.
And LOL (!) @ At first glance someone might think- Γ’β¬ΕOh she’s pretty and knows some good stuff.Γ’β¬Β - that cracked me up :p
Honestly, I would like to find a better way to deliver my content - one that would really help pull it all together for someone who is looking to advance. I'm working on that - because I realize at this point its just spread out everywhere. Feedback like yours helps immensely in giving me a fresh perspective on how its viewed, consumed, and used - so thank you again.
Hey Lynn,
You said:
"Honestly, I would like to find a better way to deliver my content - one that would really help pull it all together for someone who is looking to advance."
Knowing you, I'm sure you'll come up with a way:-)
I just wanted to let you know what i truly think and feel about your work. You overdeliver- and that is something that shows you care about people.
Blessings,
Eren
Hi Lynn,
I'm new to your site and have been busy catching up with the all great articles and products you provide.
I'd like to know how you work from home with children. You mentioned your children are a bit older now but how does a single mother care for her children whilst becoming a successful entrepreneur? It's a very inspiring story, I'm sure...and it must take a lot of fancy footwork.
Thanks,
ct
P.S. I have a 2 1/2 year old who keeps me busy and certainly knows how to shut mommy's laptop when she wants attention. Too cute!
Hi CT & Welcome π
My two children are now almost 12 & 17 - but I started my first business when they were 5 months & 5 years old. I have a picture of my daughter sitting in my lap at my desk when she was one year old here. Its been a crazy decade+ no doubt!
But this is the one post of mine that I would really like to share with you: http://www.clicknewz.com/857/working-at-home-with-kids/
It details MY way of making it work, and finding harmony while working and raising a family under the same roof.
I'll be honest with you - there have been hard times. There have been frustrating phases (for both me and for the kids). There have been long hours, lots of distractions, and plenty of hair pulled out.
But NOW... with the kids older and the start-up days behind me... WOW - I couldnt ask for a better life. My son (16yo) looked at me the other day and said "You're so cool, Mom. I really appreciate all the years you put in, and how hard you worked to make all this happen."
Priceless...
Back to the point. I had unique circumstances over the years. Personal hurdles to overcome. People ask me how I did it. I say I didnt have many other options. That said, if I could do it under the worst of conditions - I know for a fact that ANYbody can do the same under better.
You nailed that one, Deb.
If I had all day to sing her praises here, I certainly would.
She's someone genuinely concerned with giving people who come to her for advice what they NEED. People often WANT the craziest things, but she gives her all to providing what they NEED.
To all just discovering this gem of the Internet (wow, I'm even waxing poetic...), stick around, listen carefully, do everything you're told and you'll do just fine.
Thank you Dan π I've moved Deb's comment to a new post - the link is just above your comment.
Thanks for the page full of notes I just made on your responses, Lynn. My respect for you has steadily ascended since I randomly ran across you on the Twitter Γ’β¬ΕEveryoneΓ’β¬Β page. I must have started tweating about the same you did, though I only just broke 50 followers. When you’re hot you’re hot! You’ve certainly inspired me to take more notice of how people use Twitter and other social sites to promote their careers and business efforts. After years of paper ideas and website dabbling, it’s high time I started making some income from some of them. I ran across you at just the right time.
The way you make use of the web would seem to be applicable many different situations. Your style defies the usual sales resistance because you seem to ignore the tired if time-honored sales model. It’s like selling by being a nice person. I think you’re onto something.
You were very good in that audio podcast interview a week or two ago. Maybe you should do a regular podcast show: Itunes and allΓ’β¬βor do you do something like that now?
Thank you, Wade! I do host a weekly webinar which is free - you can register at http://www.selfstartersweeklytips.com/webinars.htm
It is an interactive event, usually Q&A or open-discussion style, complete with web browser (for sharing sites/files) and both audio & chat features.
Join us if you can - they are live every Tuesday at Noon EST π
Hi Lynn,
The answer that was most intriguing to me was:
"My biggest breakthrough was when I got a long-term vision for my business - and sat down and mapped out a 10-year plan."
Could you expand on this a bit? Was this plan purely financial goals or did it have a greater scope?
I continue to be impressed with your site and the community you've built. Kudos.
BTW, are you going to Affiliate Summit in Boston?
Hi Rob,
The plan actually had nothing to do with financial goals. That seems a bit odd now that you've brought it up, and I said it out loud. The plan had to do specifically with direction and purpose. What I want to achieve in my lifetime, type of thing...
I missed the last Affiliate Summit. I had all intentions of going (trip planned, ticket booked, room reserved) but things came up here at the last minute that kept me at home.
I am planning to attend BWE in September (will blog about that next), and have tentative plans to attend Stompernet Live 6 in Atlanta in August. I'll keep you posted on Affiliate Summit - its definitely one I'd like to attend in the near future. So if not this one, one very soon π
Lynn, there is a new WordPress plugin that came out based on Twitter. It's called Tweet My Blog. It pings your WordPress blog and your Twitter account.
Thanks Paul - do you have a link? I'll check it out. I prefer to blog & tweet personally (nothing automated) but I'd be interested in seeing what the plugin does at least.
Hello again Lynn,
Thank you very much for replying to my post. I know you're busy and I appreciate your time.
Aside from your obvious expertise, the fact that you're a mom successfully working from home makes your advice that much more valuable to me on a personal level. Your story has definitely revved up my motivation to have it all. I don't care at all about making money for making money's sake. Rather, what motivates me most to be a successful entrepreneur is wanting so much to give my children a good life wherein I am always physically and emotionally available to them, and to also leave with them a legacy and good example of hard work, dedication, dreaming big, and always prioritizing life's most important things, like family, first.
Thanks again and count me in as an increasingly regular face/username on your site.
Best of everything,
ct
I also want to add that what your son said to you and how he thanked you for your hard work, I think, is the point. What better compliment and affirmation that you really are a success!
Thank you CT - I agree π
Good Morning Lynn
I always wanted to ask you this. What exactly is a
Unix Systems administrator?
Charles
Chastill
'
I would like to say something about being in a home business and it's challenges. First you learn slow in the begining because that is all you can do and it takes baby steps to get up that ladder of success. Second no one should say or tell prospects that getting involved in their business is going to be easy as pie because it isn't it takes determination, aggression, sacrifice of your comfort zone, and more. I like what Al Pachino says in his inch-by-inc speech in this movie clip I found on youtube.com. "inch-by-inch we are going to have to fight for that inch, and when we add up all those inches that is going to make the difference between winning and loosing in this game." That speech should inspire us to get over the fear of rejection, failure, and room for error when trying to achieve our goals. Third, I like the quote from the poem : The DASH..by Linda Ellis "It's not what we own, the cars, the home, the cash but what we do with the dash". When I first attended a meeting for starting my own home based business this inspirational poem was powerfull and the world as we know is like the words from this poem. Society is so torn and distracted by hollywood, money, and troubles that they get lost until one day life ends for them and then what. What legacy did the person leave or wanted to change and leave behind once they pass on. I sure want to be remembered as a loving, caring, and big hearted person who help millions of people get out of debt and retire comfortably, stay home with their kids and watch them grow before their eyes, be healthy with natural alternatives to cleaning their home and rid of the toxic cleaners that could of harmed thier health, and learn about love, kindness and friendship. These words of wisdom are the secrets to success and should be applied in any business we do in life.
The balance of time freedom comes later when you start to sacrifice your time and make time to do appointments, presentations, and internet e-mails to your prospects. It's alot of work but well worth it in the end the rewards to financial independence is far greater. Like I tell my prospects when I do my table presentations for my wellness business, in the home business industry we work smarter not harder.
I would like to congratulate Lynn for this excellent blog forums success. Although I am not a millionaire nor a professional I am like everyone here the average american. This is the time now for the average american to take a step back and evaluate what needs to be changed in their life. What types of goals do you want to accomplish within 2 to 3 years of working your internet businesses? What sacrifices are you willing to put up with until you become debt free? As my coach Cindy says to me all the time, we all should take time to write a goal statement and continue working and making appointments. Before you know it you will accomplish success that will match what you have written a year ago. The choice is yours, so What are you willing to do to get success in your business? Are you going to make those phone calls you keep saying you will do but didn't yet? Are you going to set up an appointment with that prospect who is willing to work and find more people like him/her who wants success now not later? Are you going to stop procratinating so you can reach for your goal?
You decide.
God Bless
Hi Charles,
Here is a great overview:
http://snap.nlc.dcccd.edu/sysadmin.html
I was Senior Admin over a small site - a chain of regional stores with proprietary software. The stores were switching over from a paper system and my job was to oversee the data entry, to manage the setup for each department, run & test backups, and train employees through the switchover.
I also did the data entry for all accounting, and worked in the billing department on the side (after hours).
It was a great primer in both business systems and accounting, neither of which I had any previous experience with. I left that job in early 1997 to start my first business.
Anastacia,
Whilst I agree with most of what you wrote, please remember that this blog is read by people all over the world, not just in the US.
Believe it or not, many of us really don't like being called "average Americans" - or even any kind of Americans! I'm glad you're proud of your country, but please remember that there's a huge amount of civilised world outside the borders of the US!
Now, back to rubbing those sticks together... π
Hi Terry:
First, I'd like to tell you that I love, love, love your website & blog!! It's nice to be able to find "honest" & "great" advice all at the same time...lol!
Here's my question...there is sooo much information on the web that I find it sooo confusing on where to start...geeeze. What would you recommend for someone like me who is just starting out in affiliate marketing and Web2.0? And (ok, this is 2 questions)...are you available for coaching? I would appreciate your help.
Thank you so much!!!
Best regards,
Michele
Thank you Michele π
There is a new challenge that is starting on August 1st that would be a great starting point. Its completely free to participate: http://www.thirtydaychallenge.com/challenge/24627
You can also download High Perfomance Affiliate Marketing (also free) from: http://www.quityourdayjob.com/learning
Those two resources should make an excellent starting point for you. You should join us at the forum if you havent already. I do have an option there to upgrade to Elite Member, which will give you access to my private brainstorming group π
Best,
Lynn Terry
Alan,
I didn't mean any offense towards nationally and internationally. I was speaking to all people that comes from diffrent walks of life. So if I offended anyone my sincere appoligies. What I meant was everyday those involved in network marketing such as myself approach people who we know don't posses the skills to run a traditional business without a degree but in the home business industry it's great we don't need that. With the proper leadership and training from our sponsor/enrollers/ coaches ..who ever introduced us to the business we joined, this is what I meant.
So, being a stay at home moms and dads as well I understand them trying to work from home and know what they are going through because you know as well as I do that we want to be home with our kids and involved in everything they do right. I have a 1 year old son and I was lucky with this type of business I do to have the flexibility to stay home and do business presentations via internet and in person alongside him. It's fun and exciting to be able to do that compared to corporate environment ya know.
Live, Laugh, Love Always!
Anastacia, New Jersey
Hi Anastacia,
Don't worry, absolutely no offence was taken!
Thanks for the reply,
Alan
Welcome.
π Anastacia, NJ
Hey Lynn
I appreciate you explaining it to me. I had read that about you a long time ago. I was just curious.
Have a good day.
Charles
No problem, Charles π You're most welcome!
I'll leave the thread open indefinitely - should be fun to see what other "one question" people may come up with π
Hi Lynn,
Great Webinar with Alejandro Reyes! You were very informative. Thanks and I even got to make a few networking friends.
Anastacia H.
Melaleuca The Wellness Company
Marketing Executive II
Thank you Anastacia - I agree, Alejandro was an awesome guest at yesterday's live webinar! Anyone who is not joining us live on Tuesdays already, be sure to register here (it's free): http://www.selfstartersweeklytips.com/webinars.htm
My question is how much progress have you made on Virtual Assistants, programmers , or whatever you care to call it regarding Outsourcing various aspects of your Blogs
Honest answer: I am still standing in the same place I was the last time we discussed it π
I outsource things like WordPress upgrades, forum software upgrades (in progress right now), plug-in installations, etc. But I have not yet taken on a full-time VA or a regular assistant. Just still outsourcing the odd jobs...