On Monday morning I posted this photo to Twitter from my mobile, with the caption: This is what affiliates do on Mondays. Cynthia LaLuna replied to that tweet saying: Stellar proof that a picture is worth a thousand blog posts!
Nicole Dean took that photo in Atlanta, the morning following the StomperNet Live 8 event at the Hyatt. We both stayed over, slept in, enjoyed a late breakfast and then had a coffee out on the patio.
It's amazing how alike Nicole and I are, particularly in goals and values. Many of our conversations over the weekend were about our families, our futures and our goals.
She's been to my home, we've met each others children, and I've been lucky to count her as a close friend after we met online through our blogs.
One of the things we really have in common is a deep appreciation for our lifestyle, and the quality time that we each have with our children.
We both make a very good living online, really enjoy the work that we do, and focus on creating passive streams of income. We are living the dream.
Is it Ferrari's and mansions and hot babes on the beach? No. It's hanging out with our kids by the pool on a weekday, an afternoon hike to Burgess Falls with a friend, traveling, making friends all over the world, and basically living a life we could only dream of back when we held 9-to-5 jobs.
All that without worrying about how we're going to pay the bills. Instead, our creative brain power goes into the next cool idea to make more money online.
My personal goals are simple: I am on a continuing mission to simplify my life, and grow my business. I've made incredible progress on that over the last couple of years, and I am loving the results.
It's not as easy as it sounds. More often than not growing your business only makes your life more complex. Or simplifying could easily mean scaling back your business. For me it's all about striking that perfect balance.
While I'm sure that everyone dreams about winning the lottery or striking it rich, I would guess that most people would be truly happy to live a meaningful and rewarding life - with more time, more money... and less stress.
That's exactly what Nicole and I have both achieved. And we're not the only ones - there are thousands of people out there who have made a dramatic lifestyle change, and thousands more who are steadily working towards that goal.
We did it, so can you.
Nicole had some boring bank job before she started working online. I was a grossly underpaid Unix Sys Admin in a small town. I'm a single mother, and her husband went through several lay offs. We are two very normal women, with very normal lives, who each worked very hard to make it happen.
I wish I could find pictures of "my past life" to share with you for comparison in this post... but just imagine a totally stressed out, over-worked, under-paid, completely broke and exhausted woman. That was me. I never had enough time for my children, much less myself. It's a sharp contrast to the life I am living now...
I know a lot of people think I must be just plain "lucky", or that I'm the exception to the rule when it comes to success with online business. The truth is that I worked hard to claim more than a dozen years of successfully working from home, and creating my income from a home office.
Even though I know firsthand that it was no easy ticket for me personally, and that there are plenty of others out there doing the same... there is something powerful about meeting one of those people face to face and getting that confirmation.
I really liked Cynthia's tweet that "a picture is worth a thousand blog posts". For years now I have shared tips and resources, and hopefully some inspiration, to help you find your passion and create a profitable home business. But Cynthia is right - the photos really do say it all.
I've always said if I can do this, so can you. Now you have double inspiration. I did it. Nicole did it. There's nothing stopping you from having a successful online business too. 😉
How we do it...
It's not all patios and waterfalls, of course. I'm sure you've discovered by now that working at home is still work. The main difference is that you can set up passive income streams, and you can earn much more money for your time by setting up systems that continue to work even while you're out enjoying your life.
And that's exactly what we do.
Nicole did a guest series here a couple of weeks ago where she shared some of those systems in detail. If you haven't had opportunity to read that series, you'll find it below - or if you did, you may want to go back over it one more time.
We both use these methods - repurposing content, using PLR (private label rights), setting up email autoresponder series, creating short reports - just as an example of some of the things that make up our passive income. Things that increase traffic and sales whether we are sitting at our computers... or hiking through Cumberland Caverns with our kids.
Here are the links to Nicole's 5-part series:
- Email Marketing: E-courses Make it Easier
- Promoting Your E-courses
- Re-purposing Content & Creating Buzz
- Planning One Project Ahead
- Two Secret Strategies...
No matter what level you are on, it pays to get aligned with people who have similar goals, and to continue learning and growing. Nicole is brilliant, and she is one of those people that truly inspire me. I wanted to share that with you here too, the best I can with text & pictures, and really encourage you to go for your dreams!
It's definitely worth it.
Best,
p.s. You'll find Nicole Dean online at http://nicoleonthenet.com and @NicoleDean on Twitter. Be sure to follow her there as she continues to share her tips & methods.
If you have questions, or need help with anything along the way, sign up as a free member at my Internet Marketing Forum. I check in there daily and I'd be happy to help you start or grow your online business.
About Lynn Terry
Love, love, love this post! I really was diggin' that pic from yesterday, too, and I love where you went with Cynthia's comment. I forget, a lot of the time, that it really is possible to make this happen. I do. And then I listen to you - and I buckle down and get back to work!!
I think this coming weekend may really help 'seal the deal' so to speak. I look forward to (finally!) meeting you at the NAMS2 workshop 😀
Lynn - wow! You summed up so many of our conversations so clearly here. And, I'm honored and incredibly touched by your words. (Translation: You rock, my friend!)
I think it's so important for every individual to have a clear image in their heads of what success is. Otherwise, how will we ever know how to get there? And, just as importantly - how to enjoy success once you do?
One last note. When choosing WHO to learn from - look at their lifestyle. Choose someone who is living YOUR vision of success.
Do they have a corporate office?
Are they working 12 hours each day?
Are they earning hundreds of thousands each year or millions each year?
And, choose someone who is living life like you want to. Me? I love work, but I love to be able to work barefoot with my puppy at my feet and my kiddos running around. I like being able to take off 5 weeks to the middle of nowhere and have my business grow without me.
So, if you're hoping to learn from someone who keeps things simple, focuses on family - fun - and freedom from financial worries - you are in the RIGHT place. Another person who lives the dream like Lynn is Jimmy D. Brown who you'll hear more about in my guest blog series about Email Marketing Made Easy above. (He works 3 hours/day max, travels with his wife and son, has more integrity in his little finger than most "gurus" in this market, is involved in missions with his church, and is incredibly profitable.)
I'll be posting about this topic on my blog, too, but right now, I must go share this blog post everywhere! It's so important.
See you in a few days, my friend! 🙂
"I think it’s so important for every individual to have a clear image in their heads of what success is. Otherwise, how will we ever know how to get there? And, just as importantly - how to enjoy success once you do? "
Amen sista! Success to me is having enough money to raise my children myself.. sending them to private school... living a comfortable life with my kids and husband. It's also working very little 😉 I love passive income... it rocks!
Nell
Great addition to the topic, Nicole - I couldn't agree more. You really should be cautious about your goals and your direction, and put a lot of thought into what you really want.
And speaking of Jimmy (loved your comment about the integrity in his little finger!) - he is opening up his PLR offer today, which is a rare event: http://tinyurl.com/ntomj8
It is Private Label Rights (PLR) to content written by Jimmy D. Brown - some of it never even published online before. If you know Jimmy, you know the quality of his content is second to none. Definitely a dont-miss offer...
A good reminder, for sure...
Dan
I am reading this in my home office, drinking a tea and just waking up, and I just wanted to say that it's a great post to start the day with...:)Thanks Lynn...and Nicole...you are both inspirations. Enjoy the day all...:)
Lyle
As much as I love to travel, I think it's the morning hour out on the back deck with my coffee that I love the most about the work-at-home lifestyle. Simple is good. Very good. 😀
Great post Lynn! Nicole passed this along to me and boy am I glad! 🙂
The truth is, making a living online IS possible and very likely, and it can be fun too.
But for me, it's been all about surrounding myself with the right kind of people who can strengthen my strengths and opened my eyes.
I can tell it's been like that for you as well - after all, you've got Nicole in your corner!
You got that right! I place a very high value on those relationships, my inner circle and my support network. I never would have made it this far without them 😉
Glad you stopped by - Welcome to ClickNewz!
After many years of building my business while working full time, then a year or so of no travel by choice, this summer has been my first experience with the freedom of going places when I feel like it.
In the last month I've been to Toronto for a great Tweetup, up to Gaylord for a girl's night sleepover and down to Indiana for a super relaxed weekend with friends... all the while my business has performed like gangbusters in the middle of the summer.
This is nothing compared to the jet setting that you ladies have been up to, you're both inspiring me so much, but for right now I'm sure enjoying myself!
It's great, isn't it? 😀
There have been a lot of times over the years that I have chose not to travel, for a variety of reasons. Homeschooling my children, taking care of my grandmother, just enjoying life at home, etc. It's nice to have the option though, without worrying about work - and I really love being able to work from anywhere.
On the other hand, I wouldn't want to be tied into a heavy travel schedule. I think the freedom and flexibility of it all is what appeals to me the most. It's nice to be able to hop on a plane anytime you like, or stay home for 6 months if you'd rather!
Wow.. I didn't know you were a UNIX sysadmin. I was one too in my previous life.
That has served me well but also because of the technical background I tend to overdo things. It is very hard to say, "Ok, good enough is enough. Move on." especially in my early years of business.
I still am struggling with them but I learned to stick with my schedule.
Looking forward for more of your story. 🙂
I think most people have that same problem, or at least a lack of confidence in their goals and actions. It's very easy NOT to move forward or NOT to take action. And almost any excuse will do it seems. But once you realize you can easily edit, change, fix, improve, etc... it really helps you get over that imaginary hurdle.
Creating a plan and sticking with that plan is the key - sounds like you're on a good track!
I Love this post. I have been thinking about giving up on this Internet marketing stuff. Thanks for the inspiration. I need it. I can't wait to take similar pix during the day when most people are in an office working for some else.
If I can help you with that goal at all, don't hesitate to ask. That's why I set up the forum, and you are more than welcome to post your questions there anytime.
Great poost Lynn and i am dreaming on day to be like affiliates spending time near the pool with natural breeze. Life will be more meaningful rather than rushing whole with work n work n work.
Thank you Thank you Thank you
It takes a lot of work upfront. Nicole and I both invested a lot of time and energy to get where we are today. Just so you know, it's not meant to happen overnight... nothing true and lasting ever does. Though I love your story of accidentally earning $400! 😀
I absolutely love this topic and love the fact that you share your thoughts and feelings so openly Lynn. I feel like I've known you for years and could just go knock on your door and say, "Let's go for a hike"
We've had a great conversation about what success means to us and I know for certain that I don't need a million dollars per year to fulfill my life dreams.
I have been enjoying my best summer to date. It's consisted of multiple mini camping trips with my family, playing games in the backyard with the kids, a trip the the amusement park, a trip to the zoo, and relaxing moments with my wife Angie.
Freedom is the main reason why I do what I do, whether it be in business or taking care of my health. I enjoy the simple life. Sure I want to grow my business, but not in a manner that would place stress on my family or take away from the precious time that I spend with them.
Angie just asked if we wanted to go to the splash pad for the afternoon. We all jumped up in excitement. I couldn't do that with a 9-5 job.
It hasn't always been this way, but it sure is great to see that my hard work and persistence has paid off. Like Nicole mentioned, if I didn't have a clear vision of what success means to me I would not be where I'm at today. I may have the money, but I wouldn't have the lifestyle.
I am so grateful to have you in my life Lynn and for introducing me to people like Traci Knoppe and Nicole Dean. It sure makes a difference when you align yourself with people who share similar goals and values.
You ROCK Lynn. Thanks for your friendship.
Scott Tousignant
Thank you, Scott 😀 It's friends like you and Nicole and many others that have made all of this such an incredible and positive experience.
I look forward to the day we get to meet in person at an event - and hopefully soon! I'm going to hug your neck and thank you for that phone call and that conversation. Have fun at the splash pad 😉
Cant say it enough You are "AWESOME"!!!
I did a video for you after I read this, this morning. If you want to take a look its at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nWtANKAqm58
Keep it up Your GRRRRREEEAAT!!(as tony the tiger would say)
Thank you for that, CJ 😀 I watched the video and appreciate your response!
Any time I think I speak for many when I say Thank you very much for everything that you do I can't say it enough
From the bottom of my heart,
Thank you
Wow - so honored to have contributed a blog post title to ClickNewz!
You really do know what's important, Lynn, and since I became a location independent professional myself recently, I'm getting clearer and clearer on that myself. The freedom to live in America's beautiful places, regardless of job base, and go for a mountain hike at will is far more alluring than big impressive houses and closets full of Prada!
Can't wait to catch up with you in a few days...
Let me know what I owe you for that 😉 LOL
I look forward to seeing you again this weekend in Atlanta! And I'm with you. I think I'll probably always enjoy my Levi's and flip-flops... no matter what. I value family, freedom and friendships far more than material possessions - and one of the perks to success is to invest MORE into those things. Sadly, many people make it to the top and completely forget their values. But that's another topic for another day...
Wasn't SNL8 great? I wished I'd stayed that last night instead of driving home to NC and getting stuck in bad traffic in SC!
Thanks for the inspiration,
Fran.
I really enjoyed it... but - Did we get to meet?! The entire weekend is such a blur at this point. It was so full from start to finish that I find myself flipping back and forth through my notes trying to recall certain details.
If we didn't run into each other there and have a conversation, that's a real shame! If we did, I'm thumping myself for not being able to recall -ha! (blame Nicole & the wine 😛 )
You know those Ferrari pictures with babes never did it for me either!
The lifestyle that you and Nicole are sharing with us is not so far fetched and that is the APPEALING part. The more "seasoned" I get the more I realize what gives me joy isn't the "dream" of a million dollars, but the reality of having less debt, more time with my family, and the freedom to manage a business that is sustainable and satisfying.
You and Nicole help to keep me inspired and on track! Thanks Lynn 🙂
Amazing post. I am just after stumbling upon this site and although I am quite busy I couldn't help but read this article. Is very inspiring to read and shows just what can be achieved with hard work.
I would love to be in your position a few years from now. Am definately going to add you to my bookmarks and will be checking out the rest of the articles when I get the chance.
Again thanks for great post!
Phil
WOW is all I can say. This post made me so emotional. I can taste the success but it's just taking time to get there. I don't want the expensive cars, houses, clothes or things like that I just want the freedom to pay all of our bills, pay off debt, help the kids and other family members, travel (you know how Kev and I love to do that LOL) and I want to be able to donate my time and money to help others. See, I can SEE where I want to ultimately be but it's getting there that's the hard part for me.
I know I am on my way because of your help, Lynn and Nicole is always so uplifting and kind that I appreciate you both for all you do. What a great blog post. Phew! I'm off to have sweet dreams of SUCCESS!
I have loved Lynn and Nicole since I have known you online. I just love your kind of life and the confidence in your work.
I wake up early daily to work for tow or three hours before my children get up and it feels good that i am learning something new to help make me some money. I just want those two or three hours to be very productive. After the two or three hours when my children wake up I am always ready for us to go to parks, library and go for walks.
It took me a very long time to get the guts to start it out but now I am on it and not looking back. Wish I met this two ladies two years ago.
I love the pictures! I can easily say that the two of you fit the picture perfectly of how I want my online business life to be... relaxed, comfortable, and stress free!
"Is it Ferrari’s and mansions and hot babes on the beach?"
You know that just sounds ridiculous when you say it! lol.. never interested me either.
Loved this post Lynn! I've learned so much from both you and Nicole. Have to say I've been reading your blog for years and this just might be one of my most favorite posts.
As someone who was seriously tied down by my service business last year I yearn for that freedom and I know I spent about two years doing nothing but building a 'job' for myself. I take responsibility for that but I've been on a mission for close to a year now to really focus on more passive systems and I've definitely been tuned into both the people I know do it best and like I would want to do it.
Thanks so much for posting all those pics, it's so fun to see your friendship growing over the last while!
Angela
Interesting story, it is pleasure to hear that you are living the dream. Good job.
Lynn,
Great review. I'm guessing that the reason so many people come to you first for reviews is that you are so honest. You share the positive and the not so positive experiences without really knocking people. You are clear that while a particular set up or scenario does or does not work for you, others may have a different experience. At the same time, you give us enough information about the actual experience to judge for ourselves whether or not we may find it helpful to us. Thanks so much for being such a stand up gal.
Rasby
Love the post!! You inspire me to keep reaching for my goals!
And by the by - you two are my absolute FAVORITE internet marketers, bloggers, and people. Bar none.
Nell
Awww... I just saw this, Nell. Thanks so much!
Hi Lynn,
You have brought me from a not knowing person to a knowing how person on internet. Your post and webinar has improved my knowledge also got to know new friends at forum who are helping one way the other
Thank you Thank you Thank you
Great Post! This post has really inspired me to keep pining away towards my own goals. The more I read your posts and interact on you forum the easier it gets.
Yes, surrounding yourself with like minded people is the way to go. The crowd that I cater to with my business does not have the same intense work orientation. So it is great when I learn so much here, apply certain concepts and watch everything work.
Thanks for everything.
Lynn:
One of your best articles. I posted it on my twitter site.. I am on the same mission -To simplify my life and grow my business. Moving back to Ft. Lauderdale into a 270 sq foot Santuary one block from the beach is making that happen. I want to find a Nicole Dean in Florida for me to grow with. Best to you both. Beverly
Example of using systems & blog post giving inspiration is right here right now Lynn. Out of the online loop for over a week now, I have been a bit thrown off emotionally, although it's all good in the learning process of true success! Being on your list, I received your 'blog blast' through aweber today. It got me back on track not to give up and to realize where there is willingness to persist and go with the flow of life, it all works out for the highest good. I have much to work on, and am now looking forward to doing it rather than regretting what I haven't done yet. Thank you always.
Best,Mary
Hey Lynn!
I love getting your posts, I really look up to you in the affiliate marketing sense:) Awesome to see how well you are doing. I'm still crawling along trying to find my feet!
Thank you for the inspiration:)
Diggy
Lynn,
My admiration goes out to you for your honesty and choice of lifestyle. I can so relate. I don't want a huge house and awesome car. I want to be free to be there for my family and I want my life to have purpose. Oh yeah, and some extra money to help us live the way we want. I must say God has allowed all of that through my business.
GREAT post!
Your a great example of what "taking Action" can do and are a continued inspiration to do and accomplish more.
Hey Lynn...I can sure vouch for the truth of your post. Can't wait to see your post about NAMS.
You and Nichole truly do walk the talk and walk the walk. You have created an amazing lifestyle based on your goals and your dreams. And by really connecting with people.
I feel honored to have "watched you in action" during NAMS. You Rock!
Kathleen Gage
You'll find the NAMS post here:
http://www.clicknewz.com/2008/nams-recap-affiliate-marketing-workshop/
I really enjoyed seeing you again, Kathleen. And thank you. It was super nice to sit down and talk over dinner. I look forward to seeing you again soon, and looking for new ways we can connect through our work.
I used one of your videos at the end of my NAMS post too, btw 😉
I totally agree with you, if we work hard and devote enough time on continuously then success can be achieved, specially on internet marketing.
Thanks for sharing this awesome article, thumbs up!!
I know so many people who are working too hard with their 9-5 jobs at their offices. Despite of their hardwork, not all of them have the chance to be at the top. Most of them are actually trapped in their positions for quite a long time. I can't actually compare an ordinary office job to my online activity, because I haven't tried any office work. However, I must say that I'm one of the luckiest person to have this opportunity at the right time. I know that all my efforts will pay off. Hopefully soon, I'll be one of the most successful person working online.