As I travel to conferences and receive email from people, the questions I am asked have a recurring theme. One of the most frequent questions is not so much about technology as it is about individuality.
The question is, "What kind of web site should I build to make money online?"
And that, my friends, is the wrong question.
The right question is not about web sites or keywords.
The right question is about you.
What are you made of?
Now you may or may not agree with what I am about to say. You are certainly entitled to your opinion, and my belief is not dependent on whether or not you concur. I'm not interested in a debate, so you can either accept or reject my beliefs as you see fit.
With that said, I believe that each and every person has been created by God with a purpose. I believe that each person is put together with a unique combination of skills, gifts, talents and abilities.
A purpose. A calling.
It is truly "the thing" that makes us come alive.
And I believe that many people never truly capitalize on the uniqueness that they have been given, instead settling for "something less".
There are many possible reasons for this.
Some people have followed the path they were told would give them what they wanted. They went to college, got the degree and are now working the j.o.b. that was supposed to bring them happiness and security. Now, they feel trapped... like they made their bed and now have to lie in it.
Some people are afraid of change. What would it mean to take a risk and perhaps fail? What would it mean to take that risk and... succeed? Yes, there are some that are afraid of success. Fear is a great demotivator.
And some people don't believe what I am saying. They don't think they are unique... or that they have special gifts, talents and abilities. They don't believe in themselves. Sad, but true.
The truth is that everyone has one life to live. Sometimes there are struggles and trials. Other times their are triumphs and victories. Some days it rains and some days the sun shines brightly.
Regardless, we begin each day where we left off the night before. We are still "who we are". The only things that change are due to external forces out of our control or they are things that we make deliberate choices to change.
So, what are you made of?
What are your skills? Write them down.
What are your natural abilities? Write them down.
What are you passionate about? Write it down.
And when you are done writing, go ask a couple friends or family members if they would take a moment to answer these questions for you. What is THEIR perception of your skills and abilities? What do THEY think you are good at... or would be good at. Sometimes others can help us see our blind spots.
When I was home from my sophomore year at college, a family member mentioned to me that I should be a disc jockey. When she mentioned that, a light bulb went on above my head! I LOVE music and was always playing records. I listened to the radio frequently and even "played" DJ as a kid. I didn't give it much thought because I didn't see the obvious.
I went back to school after that break and got a job at the local FM rock station. I loved up the ranks very quickly because I loved my job, and I was a natural.
I ask again...
What are YOU made of?
When you begin to accept that you are indeed designed with a purpose...
And that you are equipped with gifts, talents and abilities that make you completely unique from everyone else....
Your perspective can radically change.
And when your perspective changes, your actions may change.
What kind of web site should you build?
Why not create a site that works off your strengths rather than your weaknesses? If you create a web site that you actually CARE about, instead of chasing the latest fad or high-paying keyword, there is a much better chance that your site will survive and thrive.
I'm not saying that building a web site IS your purpose. But the web offers a medium unlike anything before. It is a platform for sharing, teaching, educating, entertaining, interacting... And the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.
What kind of site should you build?
Well, it depends on what you are made of.
Building sites... writing ebooks... these are just part of what I do in order to achieve my goals and objectives. Because part of my purpose is to use my gifts and talents to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
And if you are inspired or motivated by this entry, my mission will have been accomplished.
It's Del.icio.us!
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October 23, 2006 07:04 PM
Hi Joel,
I just want to let you know 'your goals have been accomplished'. I was really touched by your sharing...More than that I've found the light in my path...This would be the first candle to lighten up my dark room...
so much thanks to you...