When you think about it, there are a lot of things that are simple. But when it comes down to doing it, there is a lot of effort involved. Let me give you an example that you can relate to.
Losing weight. I was watching a video by Brian Tracy, and he made a statement that really sums it up. To lose weight, he said "Eat less, and exercise more". Brilliant.
When it comes down to it, losing weight really is simple. Eat less calories than you need, add in a little exercise, and you'll get thinner. Simple, but it can be really hard.
I know that it is hard from experience. I have always been someone who can easily gain weight. But when it comes to losing weight, it is difficult.
I have done the reading over the years, and yes, I know that I need to eat less. And I know that I need to exercise. Simple, but not easy. Why?
I start out with good intentions. I decide in advance that I am going to eat like a bird and work out every day. But when I cut down on eating, I get light-headed, cranky, and don't have a lot of energy.
In spite of my good intentions, I end the week right where I started. Losing weight is simple but it's not easy.
Let's move this to creating an online business. At its core, it is simple.
You have to have something to sell. If you don't have any products of your own, you can become an affiliate and get paid commissions. Or offer a service. Something that others will pay you for.
You have to get the attention of the people who want to buy what you're selling. You need traffic.
You have to have a way to get the offer in front of prospects. A web site with web pages, or a blog with articles and reviews. Or a list of subscribers.
Simple. But it's not easy. I'm not saying that it is necessarily hard, but if you read the steps, it seems like it. When you start going through the steps, it gets a little more complicated.
Take the idea of getting a list of subscribers. Easy. First, go to a few of the top email service providers and decide which one you are going to opt for.
Now set up your first list. You have to create the list, configure the welcome emails, and learn how to send broadcasts and follow up messages.
Next, you need to have a subscription form so you can collect names and email addresses. You can create a form provided by your ESP and add it to your web pages. Or you can create a landing page in your mailing account and link to it from your site and anywhere you can provide a link.
Now you have to figure out the best way to get people to see your subscribe form and get them to sign up.
Now you have to provide a steady flow or email messages that will delight your readers and get them to stay on your list and to click on your links so you can get paid.
It's really simple building an email list - when you read the steps. Not so much when you have to actually do it. It can be downright hard. I know...
The idea is to not get disappointed when things don't work out. If someone else can make money online, you can too. Don't buy into the idea that it's easy, and if you can't do it that it's your fault.
Just realize that like losing weight and building a list, the steps are simple to understand. But there may not be as easy as you may have been lead to believe. Keep at it and you'll get where you want to go.
Until next time...
