5 Tips For Enjoying Your Online Success

By James Allen
Posted Thursday, September 9, 2004

For many who have pursued the dream of making a living online, much of the allure was the idea that it would provide personal and financial freedom. Most quickly realized though, that once they started down this path, it was going to be a while before they got to this point. Many gave up too soon when they realized that their goal would actually require effort on their part. Others have continued on to where they can now see the light at the end of the tunnel. Quite a few have reached their goal - profitable online businesses that now produce multiple streams of income with only a minimum expenditure of effort on their part.

Once you get to that point and are ready to make your 'exit' - be prepared. You have spent so much time building your online business, it may be a bit of a culture shock when you no longer need to be in front of the computer all day long. Suddenly confronted with free time and extra cash, you may not know what to do next. Here are a few suggestions not only to help those recently 'freed', but also to inspire those who are almost there.

1. Travel

There must be someplace you've always wanted to visit. Maybe there is a cruise you've always wanted to take? Now is the time! Do not be alarmed by the news. With a very few exceptions, almost everywhere in the world is much safer to travel to now than in the past. Even taking into account recent events, flying in a plane is still so much safer than driving your car. Don't let the fear the government and media are trying to instill in you stop you from exploring the world. Travel is still one of the most rewarding investments you can make in your personal happiness.

2. Mentor

Look back on your experience becoming successful with your online business. Was there someone who helped you on the way? If not, don't you wish there had been? Now it may be time for you to pass the torch. Find someone starting out and offer to guide them through the process. Ask anyone who has ever mentored another and they will tell you it is one of the most fulfilling things they have done. Chances are, it will be the same for you.

3. Give Back To Your Community

Ask yourself what you can do to make your local corner of the world a better place. Maybe you can volunteer at the local youth center. Find out if there are any community groups that could use your expertise in online business to help them with fundraising. You may have already learned the secret of giving - that it always comes back to you tenfold. Why not put it into practice in your own backyard?

4. Pursue an Offline Hobby

Get away from the computer! It's time to spend some time offline - finally. It may be hard to break away at first, but by picking back up on an old hobby or pursuing a new one, you can soften the blow as you come back offline and into the land of the living. Whether it be stamp collecting, jazz piano or mountain biking, an offline pursuit will certainly make your life much more enjoyable.

5. Reconnect with Your Friends and Family

There are too many stories about those both in the online and offline business worlds who sacrificed their friends and family for their business. Are you heading down this path? It's never too late to connect with friends and family you may have lost touch with. Remember, a phone call or better yet a personal visit will go much further to rebuild bridges than an email. Scheduling a weekly get-together with friends at home or at a local cafe or bar for some real world conversation will deepen and strengthen old bonds.

Remember, especially if you haven't reached your "exit" point yet, you will do well to plan ahead for the future. Of course you should plan ahead financially, but you also want to make sure your personal life continues to be fulfilling too. The above ideas should at least get you thinking. Be ready to enjoy the fruits of your labors. You've worked hard to create your online success - make the effort to ensure you can enjoy it!

About the Author
James Allen is the editor of GatesToWealth.com which introduces offshore banking and other tools of offshore asset protection to those who make their living online. To learn more and subscribe to "Mind the Beach", the offshore living newsletter, swing on by: (http://www.gatestowealth.com)