Online entrepreneurship refers to the practice of creating and managing businesses that operate primarily or exclusively on the internet, leveraging digital platforms and technologies to reach customers, deliver products or services, and generate revenue.
“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.” — Arnold Schwarzenegger
Contents:
Embracing the Journey of Online Entrepreneurship
As I reflect on my journey as an online entrepreneur, I'm reminded of the twists and turns that have shaped my path.
Two years after leaving Corporate America, I learned about the opportunity to have a business on the Internet. This led me to bring my skin care and image consultancy online to reach a wider audience. Little did I know that this journey would be filled with unexpected challenges and valuable lessons.
My first challenge was that the company whose products and services I was marketing had not yet fully embraced digital marketing, leading me to ask, “What now? What’s next?”
The transition to online entrepreneurship felt like being the new kid in a massive high school – overwhelming and daunting. But I was determined to carve out my space and make a mark.
I started a blog on Blogger.com, a free site owned by Google, sharing skin care tips and advice. This became a fulfilling way to connect with readers. However, monetizing my online presence proved to be a significant hurdle.
Breakthroughs and Mentorship
My breakthrough came when I discovered an online trainer on Twitter, who introduced me to article marketing.
This strategy became my first step towards making an income online, and those initial sales were monumental. They validated my efforts and confirmed that making money online was possible.
The game-changer was finding a mentor who offered guidance and a structured approach to growing my online marketing business. This mentorship helped me navigate the complexities of online entrepreneurship and stay focused on my goals.
Staying Motivated and Overcoming Challenges
So, how did I stay motivated and overcome the obstacles? Here are some key takeaways:
– Embrace Your Beginner Status: Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Be patient and believe in yourself.
– Celebrate Small Victories: Acknowledge and celebrate every small win, as they fuel motivation and progress.
– Find Your Tribe: Surround yourself with a supportive community and mentors who uplift and guide you.
– Rekindle Your ‘Why': Revisit the reason you started your online business and let it be your anchor during challenging times.
– Overcome Obstacles: View obstacles as opportunities for personal and professional growth. They can serve as case studies to resonate with potential clients, showcasing your problem-solving abilities.
– Cultivate Relationships: Strong networks are vital. Engage with fellow entrepreneurs and your audience to build a supportive foundation. Offline communities also matter. For example, 85% of participants of my first paid online workshop were from my in-person Meetup group.
Conclusion
Online entrepreneurship is a dynamic journey marked by twists, turns, and triumphs. By embracing the process, celebrating small wins, and staying true to your purpose, you'll navigate the challenges and unlock the rewards.
As I reflect on my 15-year journey as an online entrepreneur, I'm reminded that the path is demanding, yet incredibly fulfilling. I'm proud to be my own boss and live the lifestyle I desire.
Thank you for reading,
Yvonne A Jones is your trusted Relationship Building Strategist | Personal Business Coach | International Speaker. She provides a holistic approach to coaching and mentoring mature online entrepreneurs to thrive in an increasingly competitive online business environment through her G.R.O.W.T.H Framework.
