Confessions from the Digital Sherpa: An Honest Update on My Journey
Alright, it’s time to come clean. Today, I’m hitting pause on the “rah-rah” and positive updates to share an honest look at how my journey into online marketing is truly going. The truth? It’s been a bit of a mixed bag. While I’ve managed to keep to my goal of two hours of work each day, not all of that time has been as productive or purposeful as I’d like it to be.
Here’s the real story - straight from the Sherpa.
Staying Busy, But Not Productive
Two hours a day. That’s what I promised, and I’ve kept to it, but if I’m honest, not all those hours have been spent in income-generating or even traffic-building activities. Some days, it’s been more about staying “busy” than actually driving forward. For instance, I’ve made a few forays onto Quora, answering questions here and there, but I know that trickling in a few replies won’t yield real results. Consistency and momentum are what matters there, and it’s just not happening at the level I’d envisioned.
I have, however, written a couple of blog posts - only to hit a bit of a dry spell. Here’s something I’ve learned: ideas breed more ideas. When I’m writing regularly, my mind’s actively thinking about topics to cover, connections to make, stories to tell. But when I slow down on publishing, the ideas stop flowing as freely, and that lack of momentum makes me question whether I can keep up with regular content. It’s not a great feeling, to be honest, and there’s a touch of guilt here that I’m not keeping my creative tap flowing as promised.
The Allure of the Screen
Here’s another confession: I’m still watching too much TV. Mum and I have developed a comfortable routine that often involves spending evenings in front of the screen, and while it’s relaxing, it’s also taking up precious time I could be using more effectively. YouTube has a similar hold - there’s some educational content in there, sure, but if I’m honest, not all of it fits that category.
In a way, it’s been a distraction, a kind of “comfort zone” that lets me feel busy while not actually pushing me forward. It’s easier to get lost in those videos than to dig in and do the real work, and I’m starting to feel that disconnect.
Family Time: The Balancing Act
I spent a good chunk of yesterday and today looking after my two little grandchildren, who, to say the least, are high-energy. My almost three-year-old granddaughter, in particular, brings some seriously intense emotions to everything she does. It’s wild, wonderful, and a little chaotic. Between chasing her around and trying to keep up with the constant energy, there wasn’t much time to sit down and work.
But you know what? That’s okay. Spending time with them is a huge part of why I’m on this adventure in the first place. The flexibility to be present with family is the dream, and while yesterday’s “work” didn’t look like traditional productivity, it was still fulfilling in its own way. Yet, there’s that part of me that knows I didn’t touch my computer or move the needle, and it feels a bit like I’m letting down the vision I’ve set for myself.
Where Do I Go from Here?
So, where does this leave me? Admitting that I’ve been putting in the hours but maybe not the right kind of hours. It’s clear that if I want to make real progress, I need to adjust my approach. I haven’t done the time-blocking we discussed, and I’ve been slipping into busy work rather than focused, purposeful actions.
There’s a bit of guilt here - not because I’m falling short of perfection but because I know there’s more I can give to this adventure. I know I can’t afford to lose sight of the big picture. I have to shake off the complacency, pick myself up, and step back onto the path with clearer intentions. After all, if I’m not fully engaged, then this isn’t an adventure - it’s just a routine. And I didn’t come here for that.
I’ve realized that I need to prioritize. Content generation, Quora engagement, and blogging can’t be scattered efforts; they need to be consistent, intentional actions. I’ve got to plan, act, and follow through - not just put in time for time’s sake.
Moving Forward with Accountability
So, there it is - the truth of my adventure so far. It’s not as clean-cut as I’d hoped, but it’s real, and I’m sharing it here because this is what the journey looks like sometimes. No edits, no gloss. Just the truth. And, in some ways, this honesty might be the most productive thing I’ve done all week.
This is my reminder to myself, and maybe to you as well: the journey to freedom isn’t always a sprint forward. Sometimes it’s a stumble, a step back, and a recalibration. But as long as I keep going - and keep sharing honestly along the way - I believe I’ll get there.
So, onward, even if it’s slower than planned. And I’d love to hear from you: What’s been holding you back lately? Leave a comment, and let’s talk. After all, we’re on this journey together.
Sean Street - Your Digital Sherpa on This Crazy Adventure
Hey Sean – Was just thinking about you and wanted to check in… What a GREAT and honest post.
You’ve clearly become super aware of yourself and what you are doing.
My first mentor used to call me a “busy fool” because I was putting in the time, the money and working hard – but all on the wrong stuff so I got nowhere and made no money.
As you have said, it’s not about just putting in the hours, it’s about putting the time and effort into the right activities.
Kind of like needed to get a screw into a wall… You could put hours and work hard trying to do it with a spoon but you won’t get very far, but use a drill and it’ll be done in no time.
Onwards and upward my friend!
Thanks Dean. Glad you liked this one. I think there are probably a lot of people out there doing the same thing.
I’ve still got some work to do, but I will get there.