LESSON #17: Commitment (The Choice is Yours)

In the previous lesson, we talked about motivation. More specifically, we talked about the need for long term, intrinsic motivation, and about how it should correlate with your overall vision.

I talked about how you need to be inspired and excited about your vision, and about how you can draw motivation from your vision.

But excitement alone is not enough to keep you going…

(Watch this video…)

Main points:

  • Motivation is tied to our emotions, and our emotions have peaks and valleys.

  • What will you do when the excitement is gone?

  • (About the “hype cycle”)

  • You need commitment, and commitment is a choice.

  • “A vision grows from your soul, fed by commitment and passion, and can be articulated with descriptions of how things will be when the vision is achieved. If you cannot describe life within the vision, it is only a dream of imagination; if you cannot find the passion and perseverance, perhaps all you have is a plan for a goal.” - Dion McInnis

  • Passion comes easy for most of us entrepreneurial types, but commitment isn’t always so easy.

  • (Example of commitment in marriage)

  • The biggest enemy of commitment is probably fear.

  • Tips to help you commit to your vision…

    1) Feed your vision
    2) Make it the right level of priority
    3) Make sacrifices
    4) Develop good habits
    5) Be flexible
    6) Keep moving forward, no matter what
    7) Solidify your commitment in writing

    (Example of Bill Bright’s contract with God)

    Action steps:

    1) Commit to your vision. Write it down, sign and date it.

    2) List your priorities, in order of importance.

    3) Write down some habits you would like to develop, choose one to start with, and do it!

    As you commit to your vision, I believe you will be mentally prepared to begin the work of building your online business.

    The foundational portion of this learning series is almost complete; there’s just one more important question I need to address in the next lesson before we start putting together the pieces of your business.

    As always, you are welcome to post your questions and comments below. (Feel free to let me know if you’ve decided to commit to your vision)

    Have a great day!

  • 84 Comments

    • At 2008.07.30 00:38, Sergio said:

      Eric: Great lesson! We are getting getting a lot more than we ever planned to get from your lessons not only an online business lessons but also how to be successful in business. Thank you!

      • At 2008.07.30 10:03, Eric said:

        Thanks Sergio :) Yes that’s the idea… I’m trying to help you build a foundation for any business and set you up for success in life by teaching some fundamental principles so often overlooked by teachers in this industry.

      • At 2008.07.30 02:30, Edward said:

        Hi Eric,

        Thank you for another great lesson. After going through this lesson, and thinking about it, I was having some problems. I was always doing projects halfway and unable to complete it, it really must be that I’m uncommitted and easily distracted. But right now, I’m committed to make my Internet Business succeed by working much harder and being more focused on my projects and following it throughly and continuously checking updates on erictips.com. :)
        Your Free Digital Resource Center

        http://www.dbookworm.com

        • At 2008.07.30 10:04, Eric said:

          That’s excellent Edward :)

        • At 2008.07.30 04:25, Wilfred said:

          Hi Eric,

          I dont know what to say, but this is really a great lesson. Yes! COMMITMENT is the reason for so many great achievements in human history without it nothing significant could have been achieved. This lesson has really opened my eyes to the real reason behind all my failures and mediocre achievements in the past and probably in the future if I dont change. Thank you Eric you are indeed a great teacher.

          • At 2008.07.30 10:05, Eric said:

            Thank you for your kind words, and I am humbled to be a vessel used to open people’s eyes.

          • At 2008.07.30 07:06, Tom said:

            Hi Eric,

            An excellent way to explain the ups and downs of life. Thanks for keeping me focused.

            • At 2008.07.30 08:00, Paul said:

              Hi Eric,

              What a superb presentation and well worth listening to more than once!I for one have needed this approach you have to the subject in hand.You re-affirmed in this lesson what an undertaking I have committed myself to.You have outstretched your hand and this lesson will be one I will be returning to many times when life’s problems begin to get in the way of my vision.When I feel the wheels are beginning to fall off this will be my pitstop where I will replenish my determination and dilligence to put me back on track.

              To say a mere ‘thanks’ is to show how sometimes the english language can be found lacking in it’s depth!But ‘thanks’ is all I can think of.

              Paul (UK)

              • At 2008.07.30 10:07, Eric said:

                Thank you for the affirmation Paul, and you’re very welcome.

              • At 2008.07.30 09:41, Gary Pettit (Instant-Paysites.com) said:

                Hi Eric-
                I diffently experience the highs and lows just like you mentioned and it’s hard to keep moving forward and stay committed sometimes. One thing that works for me(or at least helps)when I’m feeling this way is to reflect on a time in my life when I was committed to something. This helps me realize the possitive end results of staying committed and confirms that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.Perhaps my vision needs some strengthing as well cause when I’m feeling not motivated, my vision seems less inspiring as well. So thats when it’s nice to reflect on a past commitment(that was followed through) for a reality check.Thanks for another great lesson.

                ;)

                We Give 120 Instant Turnkey Websites with Your Paypal ID on Each
                http://Instant-Paysites.com

                • At 2008.07.30 10:15, Eric said:

                  That’s a good tip Gary. I actually do that too.

                  A good example is when I won the state championship in high school, I was able to draw about a decade worth of motivation from it. Not because of the accomplishment, but because it was a vision I had committed to and then saw completely fulfilled.

                  I heard a teaching about this concept one time… it was called “Remember your Bethel” (referring to Genesis 35:3)

                  • At 2008.07.30 10:55, Gary Pettit (Instant-Paysites.com) said:

                    Eric…You got me curious…lol

                    (Genesis 35:3)
                    “Put away the foreign gods which are among you, and purify yourselves and change your garments; and let us arise and go up to Bethel, and I will make an altar there to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and has been with me wherever I have gone.”

                    • At 2008.07.30 11:59, Eric said:

                      Right, and the point of the teaching was that the altar was a reminder of a time in Jacob’s life when God was faithful. So thinking back to a time in your life when you saw a vision fulfilled is kind of like Jacob looking back at the time he built the altar.

                • At 2008.07.30 10:34, Brian said:

                  Hi Eric,

                  I really love your course but unfortunately I am in Asia and my Internet connection is slow so consequently have difficulty watching the videos. Is it possible to download the lessons?
                  Thanks Eric you are doing a brilliant job
                  Brian

                  • At 2008.07.30 10:38, Eric said:

                    Thanks Brian. For now I want people to watch them on my blog so I’m not offering downloads. However, when the 120 lessons are complete I will put together some sort of package (affordable) to get the entire set on DVD or download.

                    • At 2008.07.30 10:44, Brian said:

                      Thanks Eric as its also nice to watch the videos a few times.
                      Brian

                  • At 2008.07.30 11:38, Michaela said:

                    Hello Eric,
                    YES, I am committed to work as hard as it takes, change some habits, learn more and take action.
                    I think that having some brakes was good; I was able to think more about VISION – GOALS – Business PLAN – MOTIVATION. Actually I come back 3 times and thinking over each piece, do some changes and understand that all those bullets are not stand alone, they are deeply related with each other and only the harmony between them, and no missing pieces, will give us success.
                    About the changes of some habits I tell you, in a nut shell, that I am committed:
                    1)to stop working at more then one project at the time
                    2)respect a daily schedule I made
                    3)learn to say NO, to minimize the distractions
                    4)I will analyze the milestones at the end of each one, learn from success and failures, and
                    5)I will stay with this course until the end of 120 lessons.

                    Eric,
                    Thanks again for the opportunity and for your commitment! Your commitment will inspire us!
                    Michaela

                    • At 2008.07.30 18:22, Steve said:

                      Hey Eric great lesson as always, I am one those that look forward to your lessons not just as a student with the intent of being a internet marketeer, but also as one that believe that all men/women are born with innate greatness,but there are those that are place among us that bring out greatness/best from all they reach, you sir i believe is such a person, my ultimate vision is to be like you to touch others like how u have touch me. May you continue to be a blessing.

                      • At 2008.07.30 20:47, Dr Chris Bowman said:

                        Hey Eric, Great stuff! These lessons and tips are the FOUNDATION upon which great success is built. All too often I see marketers focusing on tactics and tricks before the foundation has been carefully built. Big mistake. I think it’s very smart for you to be spending time on this. Have a great one!
                        Dr Chris Bowman
                        Dental Insiders Alliance
                        http://www.DentalInsiders.com

                        • At 2008.07.30 21:17, RonnieMarz said:

                          Excellent lesson Eric,
                          How many times have I started something and quit half way there or at the goal line? Commitment and writing things down I find now is very important. Wish I learned that a long long time ago.
                          thanks

                          • At 2008.07.30 21:32, Kannan Viswagandhi said:

                            Hi Eric,

                            Great Lesson.
                            It is more than a business lesson,a lesson for life itself.Last three to four lessons are really fundamental to any walk of life.
                            Truly inspirational.
                            Thanks for sharing.

                            Best Wishes,
                            Kannan Viswagandhi
                            http://www.growing-self.blogspot.com

                            • At 2008.07.30 23:38, Jeanette Colburn said:

                              Hi Eric,
                              I enjoy your lessons very much.They are helpful in many ways. I look forward to each lesson, but for some reason, I did not get lesson 16. Is there any way I can get it? Looking forward to the next lesson.

                              • At 2008.07.30 23:40, Steve Fisher said:

                                Hey Eric,

                                You’re not only an internet marketing teacher but you’re also a Life Style Coach.

                                You’ve inspired me immensely as it’s easy to feel that you’re all by yourself when you’re sitting behind this screen trying to get things done or make your goal a reality.

                                I don’t know how many times my wife and I really couldn’t stand each other but after a period of time we both come to realize that we had just gone through another one of those cycles. Like our economy, sooner or later things will get back to where they should be!

                                Be flexible, but never give up on your goal and commitment!

                                Great Stuff Eric…

                                Thank You!

                                Best Regards
                                Steve Fisher

                                • At 2008.07.31 00:10, Jaunesk said:

                                  Action is still the best motivation, Like you said, keep moving forward no matter what. A lot of time, we are facing upphill task and think we need a rest, but the rest required more energy to restart on where we stop. Take a rest if you must, but don’t stop moving.

                                  • At 2008.07.31 03:03, Alfonso said:

                                    Thanks Eric again,

                                    Your words are like God talking to us and they are so inspirational enough to think that we human need to turn on the light in our lives.

                                    God Bless,

                                    • At 2008.07.31 08:17, Louise said:

                                      Thank you, thank you!!!! Your lessons are wonderful, I wait each day for another. I have already learned so much. Louise Bates

                                      • At 2008.07.31 08:21, Sabrina O'Malone said:

                                        Wow Eric!

                                        What a great lesson. I can only imagine how many individuals will be spared this common pitfall -just because they are putting your tips into practice.

                                        I’m grateful (and thankful) that you are walking us through the action steps of cultivating a vision, setting goals, business planning and now the importance of commitment.

                                        Do you realize you might be the first person who has ever shared these kinds of best practices for success with a good portion of your readers?

                                        Even those of us who are familiar with the concepts are benefitting from revisiting the core principles.

                                        Thanks again for making it easy to stay on track and for providing the building blocks to take online businesses to the next level.

                                        -Sabrina

                                        • At 2008.07.31 09:13, Nadine said:

                                          You are the Bomb! and listening to your easy to
                                          listen to videos, has helped me start my blogs.

                                          There are certain things I want to do and there
                                          are two subjects I am very passionate about.

                                          And with you I always feel encouraged to remain Focused and committed.

                                          I am slow I don’t learn at the rate of other
                                          people getting through high school. And graduating at the top of my business class was
                                          extremely hard to do. And none of my 2 year college education
                                          taught me too much about the Internet.

                                          But I did learn how to be an excellent customer
                                          service Rep. But I need to go forward and I am
                                          in Article writing. Thank You Eric

                                          • At 2008.07.31 10:22, Colin Noden said:

                                            A running analogy you can probably relate to.
                                            Hi Eric,
                                            I used to do long distance running. When I hit the wall I would use telephone poles. I wouldn’t think of the miles ahead, but only concentrate on the next pole. I always seemed to be able to run to the next pole, even if another 10 miles seemed impossible.

                                            These days I make sure I accomplish at least one task a day which has real income potential. (eg. write article, post an ad,do an affiliate review)

                                            One focused step at a time!
                                            Thanks again,
                                            Colin

                                            • At 2008.07.31 12:29, Enrique aguayo said:

                                              God Bless you Eric; you are what I cannot, at this time, capable of describing, all I know is that you ARE, down to earth, very sincere and helpful, I am based in the third world, fighting hard against chemical addiction and moving forward thanks to God and you, thank you again. Rick

                                              • At 2008.07.31 13:09, ishtiaq said:

                                                Hi Eric,
                                                Just a few simple questions: -What time frame should we expect for completion of 120 lessons? We still have 103 more to go.
                                                -From which lesson no. may we expect to start our biz and hopefully start to see some $$$ coming our way? Or we’d have to wait till all 120 are completed before implementing lessons we learned here?
                                                While many of us understand that we must first learn the basics before venturing out but it is time that is taking for us to learn that is killing us. I do admire you for your time and for teaching us gratis tricks of the trade. God bless you and your family.

                                                • At 2008.07.31 14:03, larry davis said:

                                                  Bravo_Eric ,

                                                  Your
                                                  heart-to-heart value-tips…

                                                  reflects interest for progress of
                                                  IM community-at-large.

                                                  There’s many who speak of :
                                                  online-businesses on ‘auto-pilot’….

                                                  Well ,
                                                  developing good-habits + commitment Is_
                                                  the Real ‘auto-pilot’ we seek…

                                                  Makes us better persons , as well.

                                                  Again :
                                                  Bravo_

                                                  • At 2008.07.31 16:25, Adesegun Akitoye said:

                                                    Eric,

                                                    Thank you for guiding us on what will really inspire us to greater heights. You discussed in detail Motivation, Vision and now Commitment.

                                                    You’re doing a great job.

                                                    Together we shall win!

                                                    Adesegun Akitoye
                                                    http://www.repeatrichrelief.com/pips.html

                                                    T

                                                    • At 2008.07.31 20:52, Government Grants Women Business said:

                                                      Eric,

                                                      I love reading your blog. Thanks for helping me move forward. Sometimes it is hard to keep going. You need to reach down inside to the thing that keeps you going. For each person, it is different. Most people are surprised to find out that money is not a good motivator, it will get you excited, and will get you started, but it will not sustain you. If you do not have something to keep you going, you will most likely fail.

                                                      For me, it is unshakable faith in God and in my wife that keeps me plugging away when I’d rather do something else.

                                                      Again, thanks for all your hard work.

                                                      • At 2008.08.01 07:39, Pete Moring said:

                                                        Nice one Eric,

                                                        Commitment is probably THE hardest thing of all.

                                                        I think the ‘Fear Of Failure’ definitely eats away at it and we’re left ‘questioning’ out commitment in the first place. Or, we’re just not sure of the TRUE definition of ‘COMMITMENT’.

                                                        Looking forward to the next video, (No matter how long it takes).

                                                        Good to see you put ‘Family’ above all else.

                                                        Pete.

                                                        • At 2008.08.01 08:55, Bob said:

                                                          Hi Eric, For the last couple of evenings, while waiting for lesson 18, I reviewed some of material online from some of the other big name online marketers. I was shocked with one in particular, who I had purchased stuff from in the past. He used vulgarity on several occasions in his recent material. I’ve prayed for him and his family to receive revelation.

                                                          It’s so refreshing to receive your material and video lessons. Not only is the content exciting and extremely informative, the spirit in which you present it is Godly. Keep up the wonderful work. (Matthew 5:16)

                                                          • At 2008.08.01 10:22, Mary E. Griswold said:

                                                            Today you helped me to see some clinkers in my thinker & shed some light on fixing them. Thanks. God bless you.
                                                            Mary

                                                            • At 2008.08.01 11:11, mohd ariff said:

                                                              Hi Eric,
                                                              We really admiring this lesson as it really touches our personal life. We can see the real pictures of commitments as you mentioned mariages & business.
                                                              Our vision as to be successful Online & so Offline business. You show us the way, we learn to make as much as we can.
                                                              The most important thing of this commitments, we will like make real money but not a dream money.
                                                              Eric, you are not GURUs but you are genious Online business.

                                                              Ths, regards
                                                              Mohd Singapore

                                                              • At 2008.08.01 23:30, John said:

                                                                Hi Eric, a great lesson as all of them have been. My problem in the past is maintaining motivation after I build a business.I have been very successful in the past,[offline] un-
                                                                till I make the business a winner.When the challenge is over I lose interest. I hope to remedy that this time with your excellent teaching.Thank you, and thank your lovely family for sharing your time with us. John

                                                                • At 2008.08.02 04:47, Tom Curran said:

                                                                  Hey Eric,

                                                                  I am very impressed at all the FREE information you are providing. You have been very honest in this entire training program. It is difficult to find an Internet Marketing Guru who is willing to share so much valuable information.

                                                                  Eric, I really appreciate it and I am sure that a large number of your subscribers appreciate it too.

                                                                  Commitment is crucial when you enter this Internet Marketing arena or when you are trying to run an online business. The most important thing is to keep moving forward.

                                                                  If you ever attend a James Arthur Ray seminar, he talks about the importance of having a positive attitude and taking action to achieve your goals.

                                                                  • At 2008.08.02 23:34, Michael T. said:

                                                                    I concur with several of the other bloggers who see the last 3 lessons in particular as having a positive and meaningful impact on my life. Even though many of us may be familiar with a lot of the concepts you’re sharing, what I particularly like is the organization and simplicity of the material. You have a great way of distilling the information from a lot of the classic books on these topics that has helped me to clean out and rebuild my mental, emotional, and faith -based infrastructure to prepare me as I face the upcoming task of facing the challenges of generating traffic that actually results in the sale of a product or service online. Not only have you reconnected a lot of the dots, you once again have me moving forward in the “action taking” mode. Great stuff Eric! Best Regards,
                                                                    Michael Tryk

                                                                    • At 2008.08.04 20:42, Data Entry said:

                                                                      Good lesson - focus is the name of the game. Thanks!

                                                                      • At 2008.08.04 22:07, Don said:

                                                                        Hi Eric,
                                                                        If my records are correct we’ve been in preseason for almost 2 months. Can’t wait to get started on the actual business process. Will we have to wait much longer?

                                                                        As always,
                                                                        Thank you for all your help.

                                                                        Don

                                                                        • At 2008.08.04 23:31, Eric said:

                                                                          Not much longer :) Lesson 19 is where the rubber meets the road…

                                                                        • At 2008.08.05 10:01, Angelina said:

                                                                          Hi Eric,
                                                                          I just watched the last two lessons in a row. And I can imagine how much time, effort and commitment you have put into each of them. I’ve learned a lot from all the lessons and I thank you deeply for these basic,foundational lessons. I’d say, it’s getting to be more challenging and serious each time. The action steps can no longer ignored:either I decide to commit and do each job daily or just quit and consider this as a hobby…But as I read the comments of other subscribers, with them, I say:take the challenge and commit to live the dream! Again, thanks a lot!

                                                                          • At 2008.08.05 10:02, Mike Wong said:

                                                                            Hi Eric,
                                                                            Praise the Lord for such a wonderful lesson.
                                                                            To me,I think the “Fear of Failure” is the Stumbling-block to success. But with faith and the positive attitudes we can overcome any challenges that we’re facing in life.Commitment and perseverance will help us to stay focus on our goals!

                                                                            God’s name be praised,
                                                                            Mike Wong

                                                                            • At 2008.08.06 16:34, Halina said:

                                                                              Hi Eric,
                                                                              I am very impressed at all your lessons. They are so useful and helpful.
                                                                              Thank you very very much.

                                                                              • At 2008.08.06 16:43, Gregg Masters said:

                                                                                Hello Eric: Your commitment and passion to giving back shows; and I appreciate your responsiveness to that calling.

                                                                                I am tracking with your lessons as you parse them out. My passion and commitment, since being attracted to the power of the web, has always been to help the uninsured and now growing pool of under-insured in the US. So, I am per your suggestion and an internal confirmation that it is the “right” thing to do, following the call for the written exercise outlined.

                                                                                Keep up the good work. Once upon a time, I lived and worked in Greeley at the medical center, so I am not unfamiliar with the majestic beauty of the front range.

                                                                                • At 2008.08.07 03:41, Daniel Malone said:

                                                                                  Hey Eric,

                                                                                  I think your real talent is beginning to show through, not that all the lessons haven’t been great. Your ability to weave so much crucial information into one comprehensive lesson shows an amazing insight. I wonder how many of us realize or recognize that these simple but really profound “tips” should be applied to all the facets of our lives. They are not just useful in this business context, but if mastered and applied in other areas of our lives, I am sure the successes are limitless.

                                                                                  Great job!!!

                                                                                  Big Dan

                                                                                  • At 2008.08.12 02:40, george said:

                                                                                    All i can say is this is an awsome series of
                                                                                    lessons cant thank you enough for what you have done to show the usually hidden qualities needed to run a successful online business im sure everyone will join me in a standing ovation thank you eric its brilliant

                                                                                    clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap
                                                                                    clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap clap

                                                                                    george

                                                                                    • At 2008.08.24 08:05, Karan Kinder said:

                                                                                      of all the lessons you have shared so far - this by far is the most important one. It has helped me understand and shape my commitment beyond all the emotional-hype inspirational things I have read over the years.

                                                                                      You not only spoke to my business sense, you spoke to my soul and validated many of my beliefs that I could not put into words.

                                                                                      God bless,

                                                                                      Karan Kinder
                                                                                      http://www.theBestAdirondackChair.com

                                                                                      • At 2008.09.24 23:54, ayodele adegbulugbe said:

                                                                                        i do not have an online business yet,though i wish to.but i do have an offline business which i have just started.with what i have learnt so far,from lesson 1,there is no reason to fail.Now,i know what it takes to succeed in any business,either online or offline.
                                                                                        thank you.

                                                                                        • At 2008.09.29 20:46, Reach Success Online said:

                                                                                          Hi Eric,
                                                                                          You’re right on again. In order to succeed you need to commit for the long haul. It may be difficult at times that’s when you need to review your vision anf go forward. I love the way you teach these lessons

                                                                                          • At 2008.10.02 14:09, David said:

                                                                                            Bravo!! Once again you have provide another missing link that the gurus fail to mention. They all talk like your business is your life. Thank you for reminding us that we need to keep our priorities in order. That we need to be properly committed to all aspects of our life. As I did the action steps for this lesson I discovered there were more habits I needed to develop than I thought.

                                                                                            • At 2008.10.21 10:47, Carolina said:

                                                                                              I sincerely thank you for the lessons…I have learned so much…I know our Lord will continue to bless you a hundred fold…just as you are blessing us “free of charge” with these gems of information…I also know that when we place our awesome God at the head of our lives He shows us FAVOR!!!Keep up the great work…Thanks to Him and under His guidance we will all be successful…Have a Jesus Day!!! Carolina

                                                                                              • At 2008.10.23 14:14, Carolina said:

                                                                                                Thanks for the reminder…I do recognize that I leave projects without completing and inside of myself I know that is not the way to do things…guess that lazy little demon snuggles inside and gets very comfortable…well,I am determined not to allow myself to give up so easily…I have my goals written down and committed them to my everyday life and I will not fail because He who is in me is stronger than he who is in the world…I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me…what a blessing you have become in my life…all the glory to our awesome God…

                                                                                                • At 2008.10.27 00:44, Barry said:

                                                                                                  Hi Eric,

                                                                                                  Well I have to keep on complimenting you on the great lessons! Erics Tips just keep getting better and better! Thanks again, you are an awesome teacher, (this is coming from a veteran teacher).
                                                                                                  Quick question: (I went ahead and registered a domain name and got hosting at Hostgator even though we have not discussed this yet as I am on lesson #17). I keep hearing people say that to be successful in promoting your own product or even as an affilate marketer you must have your own website. Does having web pages with Squidoo or BlinkWeb to promote products fulfill this requirement or is having a distinct website better? Just wondering as I have not done very well on any products promoted with Squidoo or Blinkweb pages.
                                                                                                  Thank you,
                                                                                                  Barry

                                                                                                  • At 2008.11.14 21:56, Ben said:

                                                                                                    Eric,
                                                                                                    It took courage to say what you did on the video today. I commend you, and you have credibility with me. God bless you, and keep you and your family well.
                                                                                                    Ben

                                                                                                    • At 2008.12.08 19:39, xyberkthebizbum said:

                                                                                                      Sweet and beautiful! Thanks man.

                                                                                                      • At 2008.12.09 12:46, leanne said:

                                                                                                        Once again, you have nailed it Eric. A firm foundation (in the Lord) works for anyone who applies it. You are a blessing. God Bless

                                                                                                        • At 2008.12.19 13:13, netanel said:

                                                                                                          Wow,
                                                                                                          thanks, this is was far more connecting the pazzles more than alot of gurus like tony robbins and brian tracy have.

                                                                                                          That’s was short and sweet, and I’ve made sustain memorials of key points that I’ve found that’ll stick with me for the rest of my life and I’ll keep looking at them from time to time, that’s added to my Life system map that I’ve.

                                                                                                          • At 2009.01.21 01:44, surgana said:

                                                                                                            hi eric
                                                                                                            thank you for your tips

                                                                                                            surgana

                                                                                                            • At 2009.02.13 21:34, Neil said:

                                                                                                              Thanks Eric
                                                                                                              Another great lesson. When you spoke about being flexible and disciplined it reminded me of something a guy called Jonathan Zap (from Boulder, which I guess must be near to ou). He used to be a wilderness guide and he applied this experience as a metaphor for life. He says that failure can arise by ‘mistaking the terrain for the map’ and he advocated keeping the major landmarks (the goals) in mind when the vision is obscured to keep you on track. I think this is a really good analogy so thought I would mention it. One question, one of my issues is being comfortable in talking to people ‘offline’. I struggle to be articulate which is very frustrating. I’m reading ‘How to win friends…’ and have already picked up ome valuable tips but I wonder if you can suggest any other resources.

                                                                                                              • At 2009.03.10 22:21, James said:

                                                                                                                Discipline is something I need to work on, as I grow older I really do see the necessity to wright things down mostly because i can’t remember as good as i use to. This has helped me with my discipline. Eric, Thanks again for your time. James

                                                                                                                • At 2009.03.16 23:11, D. Porter said:

                                                                                                                  Eric,that was an awesome lesson. My main problem in life was that I was never committed. Always starting something and NEVER finishing. distractions. I truly saw myself for who I truely was-an uncommitted person with no goals, no set priorities. thanks

                                                                                                                  • At 2009.03.17 05:11, Rema said:

                                                                                                                    Hi Eric, I am feeling very good after a very informative lesson about commitment,diligence and discipline. It was like attending a real classroom session with a very committed teacher handling a very important topic after which I have become more determined than before to march forward towards my only vision…to be a successful Internet Marketer.Thanks a million. Hats off to the great work you are doing!!!!

                                                                                                                    • At 2009.03.22 14:26, Sandy said:

                                                                                                                      Eric, Your Tips are the highlight of my morning. I start my day, first learning something new about Internet Marketing and business in general. S

                                                                                                                      • At 2009.03.24 09:19, dawn said:

                                                                                                                        thank you for your lessons they are very helpful to me. I am new to all this internet marketing and i am learning new things everyday. Im getting a little further everyday with your help. I dont know where i would be if it wasnt for you.

                                                                                                                        • At 2009.03.25 01:02, Ria Smith said:

                                                                                                                          Dear Eric,
                                                                                                                          It has taken me this long to realize, I am in a remarkable position, I am able to get advice how to run my Hairdressing Salon, I am able to take everything you taught and apply each principle to my life, and I Thank You So Very Much, you have given me hope and I am grateful I look forward to learning more from you because what you say makes an awful lot of sense, Ria Smith from Auckland New Zealand

                                                                                                                          • At 2009.04.01 01:32, James said:

                                                                                                                            Hi Eric!
                                                                                                                            With all due respect, I believe you are real and it seems that a growing number of others are following your methods of preaching internet marketing business with a sense of patience as well. I do hope they do not use any trojan & spyware to grap our sensitive personal information in our hardware as their long-winded lessons go by. The Windows Live has advised us below:

                                                                                                                            Dear Hotmail User,

                                                                                                                            As a valued Hotmail® user, we strive to protect you from spam messages by blocking over 4.5 billion worldwide per day. We have a highly qualified and dedicated team that constantly strives to reduce and eradicate spam from Hotmail inboxes.

                                                                                                                            Recently, we have received an increasing number of e-mails from customers asking about the legitimacy of e-mails they have received. We’ve created this e-mail to help all Hotmail users recognise the scam e-mails that do sneak by our filters.

                                                                                                                            1) Be wary of e-mails asking for your personal information.

                                                                                                                            Any e-mail asking for your name, birth date, e-mail username, e-mail password, or any other type of personal information, no matter who the e-mail appears to be from, is almost certainly a scam.

                                                                                                                            If you have any reason to believe it may be legitimate, do not reply to the e-mail or click any hyperlinks; instead copy and paste the web URL or go to that company’s website for contact information. Don’t hesitate to contact the company’s support channel to confirm legitimacy.

                                                                                                                            2) Carefully read e-mails that appear suspicious.

                                                                                                                            E-mails that are poorly worded, have typos, or have phrases such as “this is not a joke” or “forward this message to your friends” are generally scam e-mails. Sometimes company names or brands are misspelled or inaccurate; such as saying Windows Hotmail (instead of Windows Live™ Hotmail).

                                                                                                                            3) Protect your Hotmail password.

                                                                                                                            Create a strong password for your Hotmail account by using more than 7 characters and having a combination of upper and lower case characters, numbers, and special characters, like the @ or # symbols. It’s also a good idea to change your password on a regular basis. Learn More.

                                                                                                                            If you receive a notification from Microsoft Customer Support confirming your request to change your password, as I did this past week, and you haven’t recently changed your password, that’s a signal that someone else may be trying to gain access to your Hotmail account, and you should immediately change your password. To do so, either go to http://account.live.com, or within Hotmail, click Options, then View and Edit your Personal Information. You will be prompted to log in again. Once you do, look for “Password reset information” under your name at the top. Change both your password and your Secret Question/Secret Answer as both may have been compromised.

                                                                                                                            4) Take action!

                                                                                                                            If you think someone has accessed your Hotmail account, that the Windows Live ID sign-in page looks fraudulent, or you receive a suspicious e-mail that tries to confirm a password change you didn’t authorise, change your password immediately via the instructions above, or go to: http://account.live.com.

                                                                                                                            5) Help us identify new scams.

                                                                                                                            If you’re using the Full version of Hotmail, you can select the dropdown next to “Junk”, then select “Report phishing scam”. Whatever you do, do not reply back to the sender.

                                                                                                                            You can read more about this topic here.

                                                                                                                            We encourage you to keep this e-mail for future reference on what to do if you do receive a scam e-mail so that you can help keep your inbox more safe and secure.

                                                                                                                            Sincerely,

                                                                                                                            Windows Live Hotmail Team

                                                                                                                            *Phishing - Defined as the practice of luring unsuspecting people to a fake website by using authentic-looking e-mail, sometimes even using the real organization’s logo, in an attempt to steal your valuable personal data, such as credit card numbers, passwords, account data, or other information.

                                                                                                                            • At 2009.04.01 01:44, James said:

                                                                                                                              Be wary of April Fool the first today because another updated powerful virus is out to attack us once again.

                                                                                                                              • At 2009.04.05 08:53, Wendy Hollett said:

                                                                                                                                Thanks and KUDOS - Your previous work experience is REALLY showing through. Thanks to these lessons - yes, I am catching up - 1 lesson at a time - I have let former website and domains expire. You are putting me on the RIGHT course and one that will be sustainable!! You have quite a knack to tie the information together in a FUn way. Doesn’t seem like work since I guess the passion is there!! THANKS and looking forward to more… I don’t want to get ahead of myself and take the steady course as the wind blows. Wendy

                                                                                                                                • At 2009.04.06 12:24, bushwick jennifer said:

                                                                                                                                  I pray your day is as great as you have made mine. You are doing the job that covers many areas. Thanks for your faithfulness.

                                                                                                                                  • At 2009.04.14 22:52, RUDOLF HENRIQUEZ said:

                                                                                                                                    ERIC, ERIC!
                                                                                                                                    IT’S GETTING TOUGH!
                                                                                                                                    I COMMIT TO STICK TO THE LESSONS!
                                                                                                                                    THE ENTIRE CESSIONS!
                                                                                                                                    ONCE WE START ON THE “FESICAL” PART I COMMIT TO GET UP AT 6AM LIKE I USE TO DO FOR MY FORMAL BOSS! BREAK AT 12AM AND START AT 2PM AND LEAVE AT 6PM!
                                                                                                                                    I COMMIT TO KEEP PUTTING GOD FIRST, MY FAMILY AND THAN MY BUSINESS!
                                                                                                                                    I HAD A STUPID RECORD OF UNFINNISH THINGS!
                                                                                                                                    AN OLD CAR, NEVER PUT ON THE ROAD!
                                                                                                                                    AN OLD BOAT NEVER PUT AT SEA!
                                                                                                                                    A KAYAK I DID NOT FINISH!
                                                                                                                                    MY OWN HOUSE I NEVER PAINTED FROM THE OUTSIDE!
                                                                                                                                    MANY PROJECT I COULD NOT REALISE!
                                                                                                                                    ERIC I WILL SAY THANK YOU FOR ADDRESSING THOSE WORDS TO ME, I KNOW THERE ARE MORE PEOPLE ONLINE WITH THESE LESSONS, BUT I TAKE THEM PERSONALY! VERY PERSONALY!
                                                                                                                                    IN PAST, UNTILL TODAY I WAS USING MY FAITH ONLY TOWARDS DEVINE MATTERS, FEARING TO BECOME OR GET CALL MATERIALISTIC, I WAS WRONG!
                                                                                                                                    OK ERIC ITS 11:50 PM NOW, NEED TO REST!
                                                                                                                                    OH, SPEAKING OF BEING SO LATE UP, IS THIS THE SO CALLED “SACRIFICE”?…..YEAH!
                                                                                                                                    BYE ERIC, THANK FOR YOUR KINDNESS AND COMFORTING WORDS!

                                                                                                                                    • At 2009.04.19 17:16, ayiee said:

                                                                                                                                      Action is still the best motivation, Like you said, keep moving forward no matter what. A lot of time, we are facing upphill task and think we need a rest, but the rest required more energy to restart on where we stop. Take a rest if you must, but don’t stop moving.

                                                                                                                                      • At 2009.04.20 15:54, Anna said:

                                                                                                                                        Hi Eric, right on again on this one! One of the habits I started to acquire is to go through your lesson each day as they come into my inbox. I’ve also written down my vision, goals, and plans and they are all pasted in my living room wall! I found out that listening to what the gurus are saying and actually putting them into ACTION is really what will get me to where I want to be. I have yet to make money on the internet but I know that if I keep moving at this pace, I see the rewards of my hard work pretty soon.

                                                                                                                                        Thanks again for having this course available to everyone.

                                                                                                                                        • At 2009.05.11 03:26, oved hassif said:

                                                                                                                                          very good lesson came exactily on time i live in israel and your lesson are great for me

                                                                                                                                          • At 2009.05.15 22:36, Robert fenn said:

                                                                                                                                            Eric,

                                                                                                                                            Truly appropriate to many newbies as well as for people who have been trying for many years to succeed on the net.

                                                                                                                                            I look forward to your lessons everyday.

                                                                                                                                            Thank you for taking the time to do it.

                                                                                                                                            Robert

                                                                                                                                            • At 2009.05.19 11:11, Chuck said:

                                                                                                                                              Just curious, does this ever get down to actually learning anything? I have gone through 17 lessons and still do not have a clue, but I sure feel good about myself.
                                                                                                                                              Where is the meat?

                                                                                                                                              • At 2009.05.19 14:41, Eric said:

                                                                                                                                                It’s easy to find tips and strategies, but I’ve found that most sources of internet marketing education fail to cover the basics of business building, and that’s a big part of why so many people fail. So I think its important to cover this philisophical stuff before we get to the technical stuff. So IMO, this is the meat. But you’ll get to the technical nitty gritty stuff soon :)

                                                                                                                                              • At 2009.05.25 15:17, Craig said:

                                                                                                                                                I agree with Eric, I know nothing about building a business. The last couple of lessons have been extreamly helpful in getting me prepared. You NEED a strong base for any of lifes endevors.

                                                                                                                                                Thanks Eric

                                                                                                                                                • At 2009.06.21 18:31, Louise Cox said:

                                                                                                                                                  Eric,

                                                                                                                                                  I have some comments as well as my action steps….

                                                                                                                                                  Marriage is like so many other things in life — you get out of it what you are willing to put into it. A good marriage (something I am still striving for) does not just happen — it takes WORK! Sometimes, the frustrations between husband and wife are best solved by putting a little distance between you. My husband and I are both home day in and day out and sometimes that is too much togetherness. When we are not on the same channel, I let him handle his things his way and I handle mine. I don’t analyze it, but we tend to end up on common ground.

                                                                                                                                                  There are two types of fear that can cripple achievement: the fear of failure and the fear of success.

                                                                                                                                                  As to your method of teaching these lessons, which I think is wonderful; you are building the business owner as well as the business. If the owner does not have a firm leg to stand on, the business will topple.

                                                                                                                                                  My action plans:
                                                                                                                                                  1. My commitment to my vision:

                                                                                                                                                  I, Louise Cox, commit to applying Eric’s Tips to create a successful Internet business that is supported by my vision of financial freedom. I commit to continue living my life in accordance with fairness, integrity and Christian values. I commit to completing each project in a timely, professional and proficient manner. When I do not have a project in the works (which can happen with the design field), I commit to concentrating my efforts on increasing my on-line and community presence, I commit to taking such risks as are necessary to grow my business. It is my goal to earn $20K by December 31, 2009, and will work as steadfastly as necessary to make it happen.
                                                                                                                                                  signed: Louise Cox on 21 June 2009

                                                                                                                                                  2) Priorities:
                                                                                                                                                  A. Finish school, graduating with honors
                                                                                                                                                  B. Enjoying life with my husband, my son and his partner
                                                                                                                                                  C. My church, further prioritized: - 1) attending Sunday services regularly; 2) devotion to my music ministry; 3) attending Wednesday evening services; 4) being active in women’s group; 5) commitment to tithing and offerings (sowing seed as it appears)
                                                                                                                                                  D. Building and running my business
                                                                                                                                                  E. Home maintenance/improvement/organization (hiring professionals when necessary)
                                                                                                                                                  F. Self-improvement
                                                                                                                                                  G. Hobbies

                                                                                                                                                  3. Habits I would like to develop:
                                                                                                                                                  A. Exercise
                                                                                                                                                  B. Pampering myself to improve appearance
                                                                                                                                                  C. Keeping things organized
                                                                                                                                                  D. Belief in self as Righteous and worthy of God’s love and peace

                                                                                                                                                  Louise

                                                                                                                                                • At 2009.06.21 18:32, Louise Cox said:

                                                                                                                                                  Didn’t mean to post that as a reply. Must have gotten a little button happy….. :)

                                                                                                                                                  • At 2009.07.03 11:44, Scott Gorczyca said:

                                                                                                                                                    First the vision, now the commitment. I definitely agree with this. I finished a college degree a couople of years ago. If I bring that same commitment to the business, then I know I won’t quit.

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