Chapter 1: The Allure of Online Income

I've recently come to understand the fascination many have with the concept of generating income online, even if they never plan to put it into action.

For some time, I pondered why I invested effort into learning about marketing a website that I may never create. Eventually, I reached a realization. My lack of disdain for websites doesn't change the fact that I don't have an audience that would be interested in my musings. So why do I, along with countless others, find ourselves intrigued by every headline promising financial gain? Why do we click on articles filled with statistics about how much money we could potentially make, regardless of our actual needs or desires?

The answer lies in the allure of earning a bit more money, which feels irresistible, especially when we have little time for hobbies or to spend with loved ones. The thought of extra cash is simply too tempting to ignore.

In my mind, I often think that a little more income is a positive thing. It seems like a low-effort way to achieve a good return. However, that’s how many money-making propositions operate. They become "schemes" when they promise wealth in record time and with minimal effort. After four decades of life, I’ve learned that such claims are generally too optimistic.

Yet, I still find myself falling for these promises, often wasting valuable minutes. My personality can be described as embodying the Optimism Bias. My partner affectionately refers to me as a Pollyanna, always believing that brighter days are just around the corner! This isn’t merely a personality trait; it’s a cognitive bias where individuals believe they are the exception to the rule, convinced they will win the lottery or receive that elusive promotion, even when the odds are stacked against them.

I don’t want to be the person who easily succumbs to misleading promises. But I’ve decided not to chastise myself for being a tad naive. A smidge of hope isn’t harmful unless it distracts me from what truly matters.

So, how can I prevent myself from spending another hour and a half chasing quick financial gains?

As I share in this piece, the first step is to clarify my goals before diving into online content.

Additionally, I propose crafting an outline to steer my online exploration. By doing this, if I find myself once again swept up in the search for fast riches, I can refer back to my outline to remind myself of my true objectives.

Taking notes is also crucial! I haven't made a habit of it lately, especially as I imagine the solutions to all my problems when I finally achieve financial success. Re-establishing this habit will help me retain information more effectively and steer clear of the allure of get-rich-quick schemes.

Best of luck to you if you've read this far; I know you’ll need it!

-The Black Yogini