Tuesdays' post, “What Bugs You Most about Affiliate Programs?” received a LOT of feedback in the Comments section.
Some readers replied to the question and posted their pet peeves about affiliate programs.
Others reported being inspired to know that others share the same challenges.
Lastly, some were discouraged by my admission that affiliate marketing can be difficult and at times cause headaches, frustration and extra work.
Were YOU one of those who became discouraged? If so, please read the following…
What worthwhile endeavor have you ever undertaken that was a total cake walk – ie. without a moment of frustration? Think about your college, your job/profession, marriage and/or child-rearing experiences.
Which of those has been perfect?
Hmmmm… just as I thought. Life is fraught with varying degrees of difficulty and frustration.
So, why would anyone expect that building an affiliate marketing business should be any different?
The ‘problem' does not arise from the difficulties that we deal with as affiliates. The ‘problem' comes from expecting that the affiliate marketing venture should be perfect and easy.
Expectations = Disappointment.
Actually, expecting challenges is the only way NOT to be disappointed. And to succeed in a BIG way, we need to welcome and embrace the challenges. Challenges are an opportunity to learn and improve your skills.
Discouragement and self-doubt are the enemies. Don't give them the time of day. Does that seem impossible? Well, taking on that attitude is not only possible, it's essential if you truly want to succeed.
For example, I regularly get frustrated with things/people/situations in this business, however, I NEVER get discouraged.
What would be the point? What would I do to support myself instead? Learn how to cook and open a restaurant?
Considering my 3-Alarm lack of talent as a cook, now that WOULD be a challenge.
What if I was just starting out and didn't know how to light a gas stove? Would I get discouraged and give up?
No… I'd seek instruction. Alternatively, I could use the microwave, gas barbeque, Coleman stove or the fire pit.
Do I get discouraged and give up when I burn my lunch? (See picture of burnt chili above.) 🙂
No… I simply put the pot of burnt stuff in the sink to soak, then get out another pot and another can and start over again.
It might take me longer than the average bear to learn how to cook – and that ‘restaurant' might become a ‘diner' instead. However, if that was a goal to which I was truly committed, I KNOW I could and would make it work.
The point is very simple.
Success is all about attitude. To succeed, eliminate discouragement as an option and accept challenges as opportunities to learn. Ask questions until you understand the process and then take appropriate action to move forward.
Believe it – do it – and you WILL succeed! 🙂