Mastering Money-Making Habits: A Journey to Financial Freedom
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Chapter 1: The Beginning of My Financial Journey
As I pen this article, I reflect on the seven years that have passed since I embarked on my quest for financial independence. This milestone coincides with the Riviera festival at VIT, a cherished event that I missed in my first year due to a deep conversation with a friend about our aspirations. It was during this talk that I was introduced to the idea of generating income online, a concept that seemed bewildering at the time, despite the growing popularity of e-commerce in India. The allure of online work resonated with my personality, prompting me to embark on this new path.
I experimented with over 30 different online ventures, all of which ultimately failed. The sole success I experienced came from a cryptocurrency trading initiative. Starting with $100, I managed to grow it to an impressive $25,000, only to lose everything except for $700 that I withdrew. Most of my other attempts yielded no income, and while freelancing in 2018 and 2019 helped pay the rent, there were times I went without food for days. Freelancing can be quite challenging!
However, a year ago, everything transformed when I began writing. A lot can change in just a year. Now, my income streams encompass three areas I’m passionate about, with plans to add a fourth later this year. The lessons I've learned along the way could prove invaluable to those just starting out.
Align Your Ventures with Your Core Values
Rather than seeking out what you love, focus on your core values—those intrinsic qualities that you take pride in. For too long, I convinced myself that I enjoyed helping people learn sales and recruitment strategies, stemming from my time in multi-level marketing (MLM). In reality, I found this aspect distasteful because I recognized the dubious value of such businesses. Consequently, I dedicated my time to investing rather than recruiting, a choice that many in MLMs would deem misguided.
While online businesses can exist in various fields, success is still attainable even if you prefer not to enter the online space. The key lies in listening to your core values and using them as a compass to discover a business you genuinely enjoy.
Recognizing and Avoiding Temptations
As you navigate your journey, it’s crucial to identify distractions and learn to sidestep them. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. A skeptical mindset can cloud your judgment and waste your time.
Consider the example of writing: Many aspiring writers have abandoned their platforms due to enticing offers from other sites, only to find that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. When you find an opportunity that aligns with your values, resist the temptation of alternative options, as they can often lead you off course.
Stay Focused on Your Goals
The first video discusses the millionaire habits that helped one individual achieve significant financial success. It's an insightful guide to adopting habits that can propel you towards your goals.
Investing in Knowledge Wisely
While I have created beginner courses in various creative fields, I advocate for this approach: if you haven’t seen tangible results in your endeavors, refrain from spending money on courses. The internet is a treasure trove of free information, and you can find valuable resources without cost.
In today’s landscape, there’s no need to waste money on courses when you can learn everything you need online. Investing in free resources not only saves you money but also cultivates discipline and commitment to your work.
Building Consistency from the Start
It’s natural to feel excited and motivated at times, but relying solely on those feelings can be detrimental. Just as enthusiasm can lead to productivity, it can also lead to inconsistency when motivation wanes.
To counter this, establish a routine that prioritizes daily tasks, allowing your mind to prepare for the next day. Consistency is essential for long-term success in business.
Avoiding Energy Drain
Many individuals feel the urge to share their progress with family and friends, but this can inadvertently dissipate your energy. I used to post my achievements, only to find that it drained my motivation for future work.
When you’re starting out, focus on optimizing your mental energy for consistent execution. Engage in activities that support your goals while minimizing distractions that detract from your focus.
Separating Work from External Rewards
While seeking rewards for your hard work is natural, it’s important to view your work as the ultimate reward. For example, a friend of mine rewards himself with unhealthy snacks after hitting the gym. This type of behavior can lead to a cycle where work is separated from enjoyment.
Now, I strive to find satisfaction in my work itself. By doing so, I’ve been able to maintain consistency and productivity, which has greatly contributed to my achievements.
Conclusion
Ultimately, your focus should be on consistently showing up and delivering your best work. Anything that helps you achieve this without jeopardizing your health and well-being is worth pursuing. I hope the insights shared here can guide you on your journey to financial success.
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