Large numbers of people go into Internet Marketing as a side business because they are dissatisfied with some aspect of their career. Maybe they would like to make more money, maybe they would like to own their own business, or maybe they want the freedom intrinsic to working on the Internet.
But as it turns out, their online business does considerably worse than the job they’ve come to hate. In fact, in most circumstances, it’s an utter failure.
Why is that?
It’s because although a lot of people think they have an online business, they actually have a hobby. But here’s the deal:
Internet Marketing is NOT a Hobby!
Let’s look at a few of the differences between a professional and a hobbyist. Then you can decide which one you want to be.
A Pro is a Fisherman; A Hobbyist is a Fish
Are you spending more time learning, surfing, and buying instructional products than actually “doing” Internet Marketing? You know, acting like a fish. What you need to do is act like a fisherman — actually casting your lines, trying different bait, and reeling in some fish of your own.
A Pro Works Working Hours in a Work Environment
If you own a business, keep business hours. Not necessarily “9 to 5″ hours, but they keep regular hours at a place of business. Your couch in front of the television is not a “place of business,” so find one. A spare bedroom, your dining room table, a coffee shop, whatever. But set up a time and environment and keep to it.
A Pro Has a Business Plan; A Hobbyist Has an Idea
Business plans have business models, revenue plans and projections, and defined sets of expectations and responsibilities. Hobbyists just hear of a “business opportunity,” tactic, or “money-getting idea.” Be the pro – have a plan, and work the plan.
A Pro Doesn’t Get Distracted; Hobbyists Do Several “Projects”
Professional business owners don’t open a restaurant, a store, and a dry cleaners all in the same month. They choose a business, and build it. After they’re successful in that endeavor, they may expand their business portfolio, but not until they’ve achieved a certain level of success in their current business.
A Pro Doesn’t Take Business Personally
Although owning a business is one of the fastest ways to force you to confront the “mental stuff” that’s flying around in your head (opinions on money, selling, promotion, and more), the business professional realizes that any result is an asset, even if it’s a “failure.” The hobbyist decides that he isn’t “any good at this stuff” and continues the downward spiral.
So take the decision and make your stand. What are you: an Internet Marketing professional or hobbyist?
