I need to turn my life around

84 replies
Dear Warriors,

I just recently turned 20 and also decided to drop out of university because I did not like the subject that I was studying. Growing up I never saw myself not going to university but now I am starting to question whether I want to study after all.

For me it is a very depressing situation. Universities are now demanding even higher grades and fees. Some people will say that having qualifications doesn't guarantee a good job but I believe that it's certainly better to have a degree than not to have one.

My parents are (understandably) getting sick of paying for me especially when I am not studying and have even jokingly saying that they should have me killed to relieve them of their burden (burden part was made up by me but it's what I have now come to feel like I am as well as a total failure).

So I decided to give IM a try. And why not? I have been reading and learning about it since I was 14 (especially SEO as I find it the most interesting).

I had come up with an idea which I thought was good at the time but it's an affiliate product that people buy once and I wouldn't make that much money from it and the little money that I did have went into my previous endeavour.

So now I am back to square one.

I have about 8 weeks in which I hope to have made a good start at earning residual income.

Despite often finding myself extremely down I do have a lot of motivation I just don't know where to start and would be very appreciative of any help.
#life #turn
  • Profile picture of the author clever7
    You should try to go back to the university and study something.

    Making money online is hard; it takes a lot of work and time. You may make a few dollars, but having a regular income is difficult.

    You should study and work online whenever you have the chance.

    Read many posts in this forum. First of all learn everything you can.

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  • Profile picture of the author Gambino
    There are literally hundreds of ways to make money online. Use the search function on this site for thousands of ideas. Pick one and work your butt of for the next 8 weeks and see what happens.

    It never hurts to have a degree or to continue learning.
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  • Profile picture of the author MouseandMice
    Why not change your major...?

    The one trait that all successful people have is a thirst for knowledge and a desire to learn about the world around them.
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    • Profile picture of the author butterballs8
      Before you enroll into University, ask yourself what you are really passionate about. There are so many students who drop out after their first year only to realize its not what they want to do as a career. Really think long and hard what your true calling is. If you do not know... volunteer, travel, work doing odd jobs, meet more like minded people... get to know who you are and what you want out of life. I would suggest that you give IM a try, but also find a job on the side that brings you bit of income. Good luck.
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  • Profile picture of the author TwinBrownie
    Originally Posted by IMstarter View Post

    Dear Warriors,

    I just recently turned 20 and also decided to drop out of university because I did not like the subject that I was studying. Growing up I never saw myself not going to university but now I am starting to question whether I want to study after all.

    For me it is a very depressing situation. Universities are now demanding even higher grades and fees. Some people will say that having qualifications doesn't guarantee a good job but I believe that it's certainly better to have a degree than not to have one.

    My parents are (understandably) getting sick of paying for me especially when I am not studying and have even jokingly saying that they should have me killed to relieve them of their burden (burden part was made up by me but it's what I have now come to feel like I am as well as a total failure).

    So I decided to give IM a try. And why not? I have been reading and learning about it since I was 14 (especially SEO as I find it the most interesting).

    I had come up with an idea which I thought was good at the time but it's an affiliate product that people buy once and I wouldn't make that much money from it and the little money that I did have went into my previous endeavour.

    So now I am back to square one.

    I have about 8 weeks in which I hope to have made a good start at earning residual income.

    Despite often finding myself extremely down I do have a lot of motivation I just don't know where to start and would be very appreciative of any help.
    Hi,
    I am not an expert, but having a "lot of motivation" to be successful in IM is a start. I would say continue to read about ideas how to earn residual income on forum(s), put a plan together and take action. Eight weeks should be sufficient time to test something you might be passion about and make some money. Good luck to you!
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  • Profile picture of the author RockNRolla
    First of all, I have a university degree and while university was fun and all, it was essentially a waste of 4 years. If I could go back to when I was 17 again, I definitely wouldn't go through it again.

    You are only 20, which is younger than I was when I started internet marketing, plus you say you have been interested in this stuff since you were 14! Now is the time to just lock ypurself in your room with your laptop, pick one method that you want to stick with to make money, and dedicate as many hours to building it as you can. Don't go out buying products or getting mentors or any other nonsense. Find a free method that works (plenty of them out there on blogs and this forum) and just work work work. I wish you all the best.
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  • Profile picture of the author RogueOne
    The one trait that all successful people have is a thirst for knowledge and a desire to learn about the world around them.
    True, but you can't learn that. You either have it or you don't.
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  • Profile picture of the author sweetcrabhoney18
    I went to college ; actually two colleges. I have two degrees that have nothing to do with my current field. But they are more like fall back plans. So if I were to fail or if I needed money like right away, I already have the requirements needed to find a 9 to 5 job.

    Also.. changing your major is completely possible. My best friend has a degree in Art History, she change it recently to Geology because she loved it more. Now she's happier than ever and can easily get a job in art history because of the other degree.

    There are tons of options. But if you can't commit to getting a degree... can you commit to working online and sticking with it? Success may or may not come in 8 weeks. There are people on here who didn't earn for years and some that made money quicker than ever.

    You have to decide your own personal fate and go from there. Commitment and determination is key to the success you are after no matter if it's in school or online.
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    keep moving forward

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    • Profile picture of the author IMstarter
      Thank you for all the great responses.

      I have a year out to decide what I want to do. The 8 weeks when I will be able to dedicate the most time to trying to build from scratch.

      During the year I will be working and putting the spare cash towards getting everything sorted.

      If someone could point me in the right direction for where I could find a membership that has a cheap trial period for to me to promote that would be great.
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  • Profile picture of the author jbearnolimits
    I am sure there are a lot of different opinions on this subject and while some would say you are a fool for not going to school I have to say don't listen. Plenty of McDonald workers have degrees...in todays world you could go to school building up debt to become something less than you hoped for and then have to pay it all back and never break even.

    Not saying that it is no good for anyone. There are some people who truly love to learn the fields they study and that is great. But if you have studied SEO since 14 and find it to be your passion why are you thinking about spending money and time on something you don't have the passion for?

    Learn all you can...it is a great thing to do...but you don't have to have a piece of paper from some man made school to say you know it all.

    Think of it like falling in love. If you love your work you will stick with it and be happy. If you don't love your work (school being part of it) then you may always be looking for a way out. Why not stop trying to please people and start chasing the dream you love?

    With all of that said I want to say that I am NOT saying you should go live on the streets until you make it. You have to think with your head as well as your heart. Take the year and get a normal job to ease the load from your parents. Also try to save a little money for a startup website. It doesn't have to be fancy or the "one" thing you will always do. It is a starting point. Test your skill at SEO and traffic driving. Find a way to monetize that traffic while you work. Then once you find something that works (even on a small scale) repeat it over and over again.

    It took me 3 years before I could see a profit from my sites. I held a normal job for those 3 years and hated it. But it got me through until I made it happen.
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  • Profile picture of the author Alex Blades
    I just recently turned 20 and also decided to drop out of university because I did not like the subject that I was studying.
    This is as far as I read, this is the dumbest ish I heard all day. Don't expect I.M to bail your behind out. Luckily for you, you have the right to be a bum. My advice would be to get back in school, and take up I.M on the side. You need a back up plan, incase I.M doesn't work for you.

    There are millions of Americans who work factory jobs, because they could not get in or afford college, yet you find it easy to just drop out. Keep up the bad work

    Get your ass back in school, then talk about I.M. People quit jobs because they are making good money in I.M, only dummies quit before they ever make a single buck
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    • Profile picture of the author JRP
      Except for the tone of your message I agree with the spirit of it. Internet Marketing is not the easy road and it requires sacrifice, dedication and fortitude. See inevitably things will take longer than you expect. You will see more failures than successes. Eventually you enthusiasm will fade your passion will subside and the only thing that will pull you through will be your resolve. I tell my kids that you have to do the right thing

      even if it's hard,
      even if no one helps you and
      even if your don't want to.

      For you my friend, I suggest learning resolve. Learn to work for something great and you'll deserve something great. The funny thing about life is you might not get what you want, but you always get what you deserve.

      You can choose to learn resolve by going to college and getting awesome grades and working your way though it on your own to pay your own bills.

      or

      You can learn resolve by putting all you energy and resources into Internet Marketing...
      but mark my words either way you will only get what you deserve...there is no such thing as a free lunch.
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      • Profile picture of the author Joe Mobley
        Lexy, you are wise beyond your years. One of my favorite things about you.

        Joe Mobley
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  • Profile picture of the author WillR
    If you didn't like what you were studying then you made the right choice to drop out.

    I don't agree with others who say you should stick it out and do something you are not interested in. You won't succeed if you are not interested in it to begin with.

    IM is not easy though and takes a LOT of work. It took me years to start making money online. It's something I would recommend people start doing whilst they are already studying or working.
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  • Profile picture of the author travlinguy
    I usually support people who want to skip college but for some reason I think you should stay. You don't say what you were studying. If it's some nebulous pass/fail nonsens courses that give you a nonspecific degree then I'd say bug out. But if it's science or engineering or physics or something that actually requires more than three brain cells to complete you should stay with it.

    I have a degree that allows me to be licensed in a certain field. I haven't used it in more than 20 years but if I had to go back to work I could earn decent money. There's actually a shortage of people in that field. It's my insurance policy in case things really go sour in our culture/economy. My skills will always be in demand.

    Consider that. I know what it's like to be 20 and to want to start making money. But college is really far easier than the real world. You should seriously consider getting back to school and doing well and getting a marketable skill/degree while you have parents that are willing to help you. Good luck.
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  • Profile picture of the author salegurus
    I can't understand people who say that getting a degree is a waist of time, that's complete BS!
    If you have the opportunity to go to college (Which not everyone has) i would say grab it with both hands. OK, so many people don't end up in the same field they majored in but so what, does not mean they are not successful.
    And yes, many successful people don't have degrees but to say waist of time etc is just stupid.

    The facts speak for themselves, the gap between College vs High school grads when it comes to lifetime income and unemployment rate is significant. There IMO is a clear advantage to having a degree/diploma etc.

    Cheers
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  • Profile picture of the author Alex Blades
    The facts speak for themselves, the gap between College vs High school grads when it comes to lifetime income and unemployment rate is significant. There IMO is a clear advantage to having a degree/diploma etc.
    I agree, having a college education has it's advantages. Some people are fortunate and make good money without it, but it's just plain stupid to just drop out without even earning your first dollar, especially if your parents are paying for it.

    Great way to tell your parents to go F themselves, after they worked hard their whole lives to be able to send you to college.
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    " I knew that if I failed, I wouldn't regret that.
    But I knew the one thing I might regret is not ever having tried. "

    ~ Jeff Bezos

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  • Profile picture of the author WillR
    If I am filling applicants for a legal job, who would I rather?

    The guy who has gone to college and studied music for 4 years.

    OR

    The guy who has been working his way up and getting real life 'on the job' experience in legal offices for those same 4 years?

    I don't agree with those who say to just go and do anything (even if you are not interested in it) just for the sake of doing it.

    These days real life experience counts for a lot. I've seen many mates who have missed out on jobs not because they didn't have a degree but because they had no real world experience.

    People can be great at studying and be hopeless employees. I've seen many of them. A degree does not make you a good employee. It just means you were able to pass certain tests for 4 years -- that's all. In some cases it might help but it's definitely not the be all end all.

    Don't waste your time or your parents money if it's something you have no interest in doing. Either go and get a job in the workforce in an area you are interested in and start working your way up OR go and find something you are interested in studying.

    Life is far too short to spend 4 years studying crap you don't even like.
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    • Profile picture of the author salegurus
      Originally Posted by WillR View Post

      If I am filling applicants for a legal job, who would I rather?

      The guy who has gone to college and studied music for 4 years.
      What about the guy who studied Law for 3 years...
      Signature
      Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that.

      ― George Carlin
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    • Profile picture of the author Marc Rodill
      Originally Posted by RockNRolla View Post

      First of all, I have a university degree and while university was fun and all, it was essentially a waste of 4 years. If I could go back to when I was 17 again, I definitely wouldn't go through it again.

      You are only 20, which is younger than I was when I started internet marketing, plus you say you have been interested in this stuff since you were 14! Now is the time to just lock ypurself in your room with your laptop, pick one method that you want to stick with to make money, and dedicate as many hours to building it as you can. Don't go out buying products or getting mentors or any other nonsense. Find a free method that works (plenty of them out there on blogs and this forum) and just work work work. I wish you all the best.
      From my point of view, this is the best advice you got in the entire thread. That is, if you actually follow the directions.

      Don't over complicate it. Just treat it like a real job until it starts to produce income to the point where you can focus on other things.

      Pick a free method. Drive traffic to an offer. Dude just gave you the magic recipe. The only question is do you have enough gumption to take hold of it.

      I'll address my thoughts about that in the next section.

      Originally Posted by IMstarter View Post

      If someone could point me in the right direction for where I could find a membership that has a cheap trial period for to me to promote that would be great.
      This type of response makes me think you don't have what it takes. There are tons of products like what you just mentioned.

      Nobody can just give you a general niche "blindly" without knowing your interests. Are you kidding me? And nobody is going to do your work for you!

      Snap out of that or you're screwed.

      I can literally predict your future because of that statement. In 7 weeks when you parents ask you what you're up to, you'll think, "Well, gee. Nobody ever recommended me a product to promote."

      Good luck with that mentality!

      Originally Posted by Alex Blades View Post

      Get your ass back in school, then talk about I.M. People quit jobs because they are making good money in I.M, only dummies quit before they ever make a single buck
      I definitely disagree. I think back up plans are dumb. If you're going to make it, you've got to "burn the ships" so there's no return. Put yourself in a position where you must make it happen.

      People quit jobs to do other things all the time. And drop out of college. The only deciding factor to whether or not you succeed is going to be if you practice the right habit every morning.

      You need to create a ritual that involves doing one thing per day for several hours at a time to drive traffic to a website, and either collect the opt-in or pitch a product.

      Think about it...

      If you go get a job you're going to be focused on one of three tasks...

      1. Getting new customers
      2. Servicing the ones we got and keeping them happy
      3. Stocking more products or services for them to buy

      If you can do that for yourself, it'll be no time at all that you make money online.

      The thing about marketing is most people want it to be perfect before they get started. That included me. But the truth is, is it'll never be perfect, even when you're good at it.

      Ignore what people try to tell you when they sell you things. They can't prevent mistakes or errors. It's going to happen, bud. Best you start working through them...

      'Cause they ain't NEVER going away!

      Marketing is always a constant work in progress.

      Drive traffic. Ask for the sale. Deliver product.

      That's called money magic.

      Originally Posted by WillR View Post

      If you didn't like what you were studying then you made the right choice to drop out.

      I don't agree with others who say you should stick it out and do something you are not interested in. You won't succeed if you are not interested in it to begin with.

      IM is not easy though and takes a LOT of work. It took me years to start making money online. It's something I would recommend people start doing whilst they are already studying or working.
      It takes a lot of us a LONG time to make CONSISTENT money online, but that's because most of us "dabble" and take tiny steps, not massive action, and stop doing what works.

      I made money literally the first week I got online. In fact, every time I've promoted an offer (actually promoted it and not screwed around) I made money.

      It's not because I'm some sort of genius. It's because I got in front of people who might be interested in buying the thing I was selling, and said, "Hey, you should buy this! And here's why..."

      Like I said, get a site up SOMEWHERE and create a "traffic schedule" like RockNRolla said to do, and in eight weeks you will be making money.

      I just launched a product 13 day ago and it's already brought in $484.70 in gross revenue. And you know what the first thing I've done is?

      I've started to build an authority site about it that will go live in just a couple days. With the sole purpose of driving traffic and generating leads...

      So I can sell even more.

      Almost all of that revenue has gone into this project. I don't keep any of it. Do you think I care? Of course not. Why? Because the long-term rewards far outweigh short term gain.

      So can you make money quickly? Yes.

      How much? That's up to you.

      Originally Posted by travlinguy View Post

      I usually support people who want to skip college but for some reason I think you should stay. You don't say what you were studying. If it's some nebulous pass/fail nonsens courses that give you a nonspecific degree then I'd say bug out. But if it's science or engineering or physics or something that actually requires more than three brain cells to complete you should stay with it.

      I have a degree that allows me to be licensed in a certain field. I haven't used it in more than 20 years but if I had to go back to work I could earn decent money. There's actually a shortage of people in that field. It's my insurance policy in case things really go sour in our culture/economy. My skills will always be in demand.

      Consider that. I know what it's like to be 20 and to want to start making money. But college is really far easier than the real world. You should seriously consider getting back to school and doing well and getting a marketable skill/degree while you have parents that are willing to help you. Good luck.
      Hey, I'm curious what your degree is in?

      Care to share?

      Originally Posted by Alex Blades View Post

      I agree, having a college education has it's advantages. Some people are fortunate and make good money without it, but it's just plain stupid to just drop out without even earning your first dollar, especially if your parents are paying for it.

      Great way to tell your parents to go F themselves, after they worked hard their whole lives to be able to send you to college.
      This type of guilt mentality hurts people, not helps them. Quite frankly I don't care if my parents worked their entire lives to pre-determine my future.

      To put it in perspective, what if they worked their entire lives to put me through clown school so I could work in the circus?

      If that's not what *I* want to do, then why should I give a rats ass?

      I shouldn't. And nor should anyone else.

      A key ingredient of living a successful life is following your heart and walking in your own path, not getting a map of how to life your life from someone else.

      What crud.

      Originally Posted by WillR View Post

      If I am filling applicants for a legal job, who would I rather?

      The guy who has gone to college and studied music for 4 years.

      OR

      The guy who has been working his way up and getting real life 'on the job' experience in legal offices for those same 4 years?
      Neither. Both of these people would probably make poor employees. I'd want someone who'd worked in the family business since they were a child.

      At least they'd of learned work ethic.

      The music character is likely to be a bit underdeveloped in that area, and the person who has been working is way up is likely to part company from you in a hurry.

      Marc
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    • Profile picture of the author kindsvater
      Originally Posted by WillR View Post

      If I am filling applicants for a legal job, who would I rather?

      The guy who has gone to college and studied music for 4 years.

      OR

      The guy who has been working his way up and getting real life 'on the job' experience in legal offices for those same 4 years?

      I don't agree with those who say to just go and do anything (even if you are not interested in it) just for the sake of doing it.

      These days real life experience counts for a lot. I've seen many mates who have missed out on jobs not because they didn't have a degree but because they had no real world experience.
      Painting fences isn't much of a job.

      The fact is without a degree the job prospects you're going to get just from "experience" are, for most, bleak, and will have a ceiling.

      There are countless people I know, or have met as clients, who dropped out of college for whatever reason and then found out without a degree their climb up the ladder was only a couple rungs. Beyond that: no degree = no better job. Period. By the time they figure out the hard truth it is really hard to go back and get the degree. The real world tends to get in the way, bills, maybe a kid.

      Are there exceptions? Sure. But exceptions are exceptions.

      To answer Will's question specifically, I happen to know someone who studied music for 4 years got a degree, and was quickly hired by one of the most prestigious legal firms in the country. Trying to work your way up from the mail room doesn't work.

      Since Will is not an attorney, and has likely never worked in a law firm, he has no clue what a firm is looking for when hiring.

      A degree is an accomplishment. It requires a lot of work and it means someone did not quit just because they didn't like something or the going got a little rough. That's life.

      This is how the interview works ...

      Q: Did you get your degree?
      A: Nah. I quit because I didn't like what I was doing.

      Q: Thanks for applying, but you're not a good fit for this position.

      Degrees count, and they count a lot.

      .
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  • Profile picture of the author lisakynan
    Hey!!

    Like people have said, everyone has their own opinions. I never went to university and I am so glad I didn't! My mum and sister both did and they are now both working their butts off to pay back debt which didn't get them anything!

    They both have jobs that are nothing to do with what they studied, what a waste of money and more importantly time!!

    I always knew there was much more out there for me than learning a "trade". My parents didn't support me at the beginning of my IM journey but now that they see the money coming in they are behind me 100%.

    One of the BIGGEST things you are going to struggle with is your mind-set. You need to 100% believe what you are doing is going to work and NEVER GIVE UP.

    I am so blessed now to be surrounded daily by not only people making millions per year, but people who understand me and my desires. These same people boost me up and inspire me daily to keep going and never ever give up on my dreams, which are quite dramatic by the way!!

    Once you start investing in yourself and your "21st century education" as they call it, you will be shocked at how your whole life turns around! The money is great, but the journey I am on is worth 1000 times more than that!

    I have been online for a few years now and have only just really started making some serious money, I am only going up from here.

    The best piece of advise I can give you is:

    - Figure out your WHY, WHY do you want to start IM?

    Is it just the money? Is it you want to prove to people you CAN be a success? You want to earn the respect of people? You want to be independent? Or all of the above?

    Once you get your goals and dreams all sorted make a plan and stick to it!

    People say it's a hard long road, well it only has to be if you make it that way!

    If you wake up and say "Yep, I got this, let's do it!!" you WILL do it!

    I am 22 years old right now and I can guarantee you by the age of 25 I am going to be a multi millionaire with my dream home already built. I often tell people this, in the beginning they all laughed, now that they see it happening they all want to be my best friend

    Good luck to you, don't EVER give up on your dreams, stay focused and TAKE ACTION!!

    Lisa x
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  • Profile picture of the author Alex Blades
    This type of guilt mentality hurts people, not helps them. Quite frankly I don't care if my parents worked their entire lives to pre-determine my future.

    To put it in perspective, what if they worked their entire lives to put me through clown school so I could work in the circus?

    If that's not what *I* want to do, then why should I give a rats ass?

    I shouldn't. And nor should anyone else.

    A key ingredient of living a successful life is following your heart and walking in your own path, not getting a map of how to life your life from someone else.

    What crud.
    That's the thing they didn't send him to clown school, they sent him to college. If he didn't like the subject, he could have just changed majors, people do it every single day. I get the impression the OP just didn't want to go to school, and wants everything handed to him, I.M doesn't work that way. He should have never dropped out until he has a steady stream of income PERIOD!!! You always need a backup plan incase one thing doesn't work, unless he plans on sleeping under a bridge someday.

    Now he is stuck without an education and no income, on a forum asking strangers how to make money.
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    But I knew the one thing I might regret is not ever having tried. "

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  • Profile picture of the author Marc Rodill
    I get the same impression as you. That's because it's plain to see. But totally disagree with your assessment of what he "should" or should not do.

    College isn't some holy grail. People also drop out of college and piss off their parents every day. Makes no difference about whether or not that is the right choice for any particular individual.

    And he can drop out of college and become a vagabond for all I care. There's no written rule that you need an income to do squat. That's just an ideal.
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  • Profile picture of the author Nightengale
    IMstarter,

    I understand your position, but unfortunately, I don't think dropping out of college just because you don't like what you're studying is a good choice. What about changing your major?

    You'll get a lot of different opinions about whether a degree is worthwhile or not. It's true that so many people end up in fields completely unrelated to their field of study. BUT... An education is NEVER a waste!

    I have a degree, but like so many people, am working in a field where I don't really need one at all. A college degree brings with it so many benefits and privileges, along with (hopefully) nurturing desirable qualities like discipline, etc.

    I LOVE the movie Dead Poet's Society. A lot of people today might wonder at the value of studying literature or any of the other arts (music, art, etc.). "How does that help me make money?"

    But I liken getting an education (in ANY field), to Jim Rohn's thought: "I think everyone should set a goal to make a million dollars -- and do it. Not for the million dollars. But for what it will make of you to become of a millionaire."

    It's not about the million dollars. Or the degree. It's about the person you become in the process. I LOVE books and I love learning. And I especially appreciate speaking with and doing business with other educated people.

    Now, if you choose to postpone (NOT quit) your education -- or switch majors, that's one thing. But quitting is not really the best idea.

    Ok, enough preaching...

    As others have said: making money in IM takes time. It's best to start part time while you're either in school or working -- or both.

    You'll find a lot of help here, so keep digging around and asking questions.

    Also, please don't talk about wishing your parents had killed you. That's VERY concerning. If you've said it as a joke, well...it's not a joke. It's passive-agressive, manipulative behavior and incredibly disrespectful to your folks.

    If you really feel that way, get the help you need. Otherwise, the best thing you can do for your folks is to stand up, make a commitment to yourself to make this work, and then DO it.

    I wish you the best!

    Michelle
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  • Profile picture of the author Lizzi
    I think you should stick with University and get a degree. You may regret not finishing your degree later on in life.

    You can be an internet marketer at the same time as studying your degree. I would suggest doing a double major in IT and Marketing. It will help your career.
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  • Profile picture of the author CyberAlien
    Originally Posted by IMstarter View Post

    Universities are now demanding even higher grades and fees.
    The amount of work it takes to make good grades is nothing compared to the amount of work it will take to be successful online. You can definitely do it, but don't look at making money online as an easier way.
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  • Profile picture of the author PerformanceMan
    College is a bigger scam than IM for most people. This ain't the '60's anymore and your basic, generic college degree will leave you in debt and looking for a job.

    I also don't agree with these gloomy Gus'es about how hard it is to make money online.

    No it isn't. It's the easiest thing possible.

    Choose a plan. Experiment. Find what works. Eliminate that which does not work. Double down on what does.

    Grow a set.

    Keep you head down.

    Fight on.

    Etc.
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  • Profile picture of the author anton433
    I don't know about the US but at least in Europe a university degree doesn't guarantee anything anymore. Lots of high educated people are struggling to find any job. You need to be really ambitious and hard working to make it in the corporate/academic world today. Just like everywhere else.

    Sure it's nice to be able to say you have a degree and especially parents often like to brag about their kids' education but wasting four years or more just for that is crazy.

    Formal education is often quite ineffective. You study 4-5 years but how much of that information you actually ever need?

    In IM world you need to always have the student mindset and educate yourself but you can learn the things you need and immediately implement them. That's much more effective learning.

    I'm not saying don't go to university but it's definitely not a no-brainer anymore like it maybe once was.
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    • Profile picture of the author Alexa Smith
      Banned
      Originally Posted by anton433 View Post

      Sure it's nice to be able to say you have a degree and especially parents often like to brag about their kids' education but wasting four years or more just for that is crazy.
      It would be crazy, but that isn't many people's purpose in doing a degree, I think.

      Personally, I have no doubt at all that I'd be far worse off in IM if I hadn't finished my degree. With occasional vocational exceptions like business, law, accounting and medicine, it isn't really about "earning money", and it shouldn't be. My "formal, academic education" has been majorly and directly useful to me in setting up and running my internet marketing business successfully: I wouldn't be nearly so successful without it, because I wouldn't have developed the judgment and learning and analytical skills necessary to apply to new and different and unrelated situations.

      I don't think it even matters very much exactly what one studies at college: it's more the process of doing it, and the thinking/learning skills acquired during that process, that matter. Those are close-to-essential for running your own business.

      Originally Posted by anton433 View Post

      You study 4-5 years but how much of that information you actually ever need?
      Often none at all, but that, also, has nothing to do with the primary purpose of education. It's very easy to underestimate the extent to which education (of various kinds) is beneficial to "being an internet marketer" successfully.

      My views on this subject - whenever it's discussed here - seem to be right at one end of the spectrum (which is another way of saying "I don't really expect anyone to agree with me"), but I think it's even not far off "universal" to underestimate that, to be honest. And I think that, overall, in spite of the undeniable reality that some entirely uneducated people have become very successful through internet marketing. As so often, one typically hears far more about the rare exceptions than about the norms.

      Originally Posted by anton433 View Post

      Formal education is often quite ineffective.
      That judgment depends on what you think its purpose is, in the first place.

      If you look at it in terms of "work opportunities" and "income opportunities", then what you (and others) are saying is entirely true and correct, of course. But that's an inappropriate way to look at education, in my view.

      Education is about what remains with you after "the stuff you learned" has long been forgotten.
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      • Profile picture of the author anton433
        Originally Posted by Alexa Smith View Post

        It would be crazy, but that isn't many people's purpose in doing a degree, I think.
        I worded myself poorly. I meant a situation where you don't really know what you want to do with your life and your parents are pushing you to go to university or college. You maybe even manage to go through it but you end up with so-so papers and no real interest in the subject you studied. Then you end up either unemployed or unhappy in your job.

        What ever the OP decides to do, I hope it's what he really wants to do and has passion for.
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  • Profile picture of the author T086
    You should get a stable job in the meantime to show yyour parents you are working. Then quit that job if you start making decent cash online.
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  • Profile picture of the author aarthielumalai
    Don't stop your studies. I was thinking about that at one point too. I was making more than most of the professionals were making, and I got cocky and started thinking about not going back to college.

    But, if I had really acted on that thought, I'd have made the worst decision of my life. Yes, I have my online business, but I don't know how reliable it is.

    You could end up with nothing because of a Google update and you might have to start all over again. You can take all the precaution in the world and you'll still face problem.

    You need to have backup plans, and your case, your studies will be your backup plan. You should be able to get a quick offline job if your online venture doesn't work out as you plan.

    Your parents are not going to be there for you all the time. You'll have to start supporting yourself soon.

    Moreover, with the current trend, getting a basic degree is expected off everyone. You don't want to make the wrong decision and regret it 10 years later.

    So, please go back to college. If you don't like your subjects, try to change your major. If your universities don't allow that, then fine; grit your teeth and get through the couple of years you have left.

    Do IM in the mean time, so when you come out of college, you'll know what kind of project you want to work on. You'd have already done the research when you were at college, maybe even started the project, so you can easily start seeing profits.

    I really do hope you go back to college. I can't stress that enough. Good luck OP!
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    • Profile picture of the author IMstarter
      To those that said I should change major: I fully intend to but have decided to just take a year out because before I had obviously always been at school and a little pause will do some good.

      I have decided to just stick it out on my first project and use it as a little starter site to get me through the motions and then I can apply what works to my future project and besides there I can't find a good review site in this niche in my country.

      @Marc I wasn't asking for a niche. I have already found a niche. I was looking for a directory type thing with launch offers to promote. But I have found some after a little research.
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  • Profile picture of the author Don Grace
    So I decided to give IM a try. And why not? I have been reading and learning about it since I was 14 (especially SEO as I find it the most interesting).
    The good thing about IM is there are so many avenues you can take depending on your personal interest. The bad thing is if you are not focused you keep looking at all the avenues as "Shiny objects" and never get anywhere.

    I am a high school drop out, but that never stopped me. To date I have about 30MM in online sales under my belt.

    But here's the real key... In the quote I highlighted you said you wanted to "Give IM a try". I'll tell you straight up you're starting a recipe for failure. Think Yoda... "Do, or do not... there is no try".

    Yeah, it's kind of cliche but you have to make a decision in that direction. Burn the bridges, light the ships on fire (which I have done twice now in my life and come out on top against all odds).

    Best,

    Don
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  • Profile picture of the author Romeo90
    Every credit to you for taking life by the ball sack and doing what YOU want to do.

    I wish I had your guts back then, and even to an extent, now.

    Personally, if I was you right now, I would go and get any job you can, and learn IM in your spare time. That way, it keeps the parents off your back, and keeps the cash flowing in.

    IM, for most people, takes years to experiment and research, it is not as easy as people make you believe. Yes, you could make some cash in the next 8 weeks, but I would say it would not be enough to live on and it would not be a consistent flow.

    And that is the key. It is fine people saying 'Yes I make money from IM', but how many can say they live off it? Not many, I would say.

    All the best.
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  • Profile picture of the author sjaydea
    Hi IMStarter,

    I can absolutely relate to your situation.
    I'm 23 years of age. I completed Bach of Architecture in 2011, and due to the nature of the market, I have never had a job as an Architect. I ended up working in Sales after I graduated. And matter of fact, I was also gonna do a diploma in teaching this year, but I had to really reconsider my options, as I didn't want to get stuck studying again. I thought of quite a few business ideas, some sales, some design.
    I think whats really important, is that you need to sit down and ask yourself a few questions, decide weather you want to work for someone else or be your own boss. Because, they both require totally different drives. Beginning of this year, I made a decision to have my own home based business. Simply because of this reason; you can work for someone for as long as you want, but when you leave, you have nothing, you've helped your employer build his business, but if you spend the same amount of time building up a IM business, not only it gives you the experience, but you have something to hold on to, or pass on. You can sell your business, you can pass it on to someone, or you can continue building it. Point is, you can't sell your job to someone or pass it on to someone. And one of the main reasons I recommend this, in my opinion, having an IM business means you can work when you want to, and its much easier to scale your business. Sure, it can take some time, but if you're consistent, and you're doing everything you're supposed to, results will show up.
    Here is a link to my blog, you can find more about me and what I do here; About Me | The Official Site Of Jay Singh

    Hopefully, it will help you make your decision.
    Happy to help.

    Jay
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  • Profile picture of the author twinkenterprises
    Hi,
    I have an affiliate program that gives you passive income. It even starts you out with some money in the program. It starts out slow, but then it really takes off. PM me and i'll give you the link.

    As far as college goes. If you want any kind of decent paying job for a company you need some kind of degree. A high school diploma isn't enough. I thought of something you might be interested in while reading. Full Sail University has degree programs in internet marketing (well they at least have master's degrees in it. not sure about bachelors), you can do them online or at the school. You must have some interest in that since you've been learning about IM since you were 14.
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  • Profile picture of the author jessmonsilva
    here's the problem with jobs and degrees. You need work experience to get a job, but then at the same time you need a degree to get a job. There's an endless circle that goes something like you need experience to get a job but you need a job to get experience, at least that is how it is in today's job market. The degree doesn't always guarantee you a job simply because you don't have the experience, this is why I agree with posters that say you should try to find a job if you feel college is not for you. It certainly is not a waste of time but it is if you don't think you will get anything out of it because the degree is not a sure fire way to get a job anymore. Just keep this in mind whatever you decide to do.
    Also, you said you have been studying SEO since you were 14. I know this market is rather competitive but tons of people could benefit from a good SEO service both online and offline. The offliners need to get an online presence and because they don't know how to run a business online they go looking for SEO consultants. Put that talent to use. SEO just like article writing will never go away, especially if you have a good SEO business that can keep up with the changes in search engine algorithms.
    Whatever you do, best of luck to you.
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  • Profile picture of the author curationsoft
    go back to university and finish your study, it is more fulfilling if you graduated with college degree.
    Internet marketing is just here to stay, you can work anytime you whenever you have free time.
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  • Profile picture of the author lorenzmac
    Being a 20 year old myself, I advise to stay in school. Just because you don't have to drive to get a degree, doesn't mean you should just drop out.

    It is a good plan B. Sure, passive income sounds great but it takes a while to start seeing consistent results.

    I see that you've been reading about internet marketing since you were 14. You need to find your why and the reason you want this to actually work. Change your mindset and realize that you need to work for hours every day if you want this to happen.

    Lorenz
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    Learn How I Changed My Mindset In Order To Stop Procrastinating and Finally Make Money Online

    "Success is walking from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm." - Winston Churchill
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  • Profile picture of the author ParkerArrow
    Without a degree, you can become an electrician, a plumber, a locksmith, a personal trainer, a hypnotherapist, a hotel management trainee (and get the company to pay for the degree), a security guard, a welder, a CAD technician, a lawn care operator, a cab/limo driver, a window washer, a metal scrapper, an artist, a cleaner, an IMer.

    Every one of these professions can be dead ends or grown to six or seven figure companies.

    There are plenty of degrees that will not give you job qualifications.

    There's no magic ticket.

    Being smarter than everyone else may be a curse. ; )

    Education and livelihood may or may not correspond. Learning, however, takes a lifetime.
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  • Profile picture of the author Greige
    First of all, Its so disappointing to see how many people are telling him to something that he is currently not interested in. Like any unmotivated college kids, they end up regretting and wasting TONS of money on classes they'll never remember anything of.

    Why do we come to this forum? To make learn how to make money so we can get the freedom we want. To get a 4 year degree and then what, find another 9-5? And who knows... you might get fired and you're on the same roller coaster again..

    I highly suggest working a part or full time job for now. And save your money up.. you're gonna need money for the internet market, like outsourcing, product launch, PPC advertising etc.. who knows..
    While you're working.. take your time to learn the IM industry. and expecto fail over and over. but once you get it down! You'll thank yourself.
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  • Profile picture of the author rickdangelo
    Disclosure: You may be young enough to be my son so pardon if this gives you some fatherly creeps. Now play the background music. lol

    Seriously though, IM may be your future. It may well be. But think about this: what would you do if you failed in IM? Of course you'd say you'd try again, and again, and again, until you get it. That's the spirit. But in all this trying you will need funds. Yes, there are free methods out there (blogger, facebook, youtube, all that) and they work. But while these can support your trials and errors, they won't pay rent. They won't feed you.

    Am I suggesting you ditch IM? No of course not. Am I suggesting then that you totally quit college and focus on IM? Wrong answer, too. Because what you can do is to continue college. Get that degree. Look for a job that doesn't require long hours and then save up. Save money so you can fund your IM experiments when you get home. It's tough to experiment when you're hungry and you got no roof over your head.

    When get it on a small scale, working a few hours everyday after work, figure out how to scale it. When it's scalable, quit your job, focus on IM.

    You may or may not take hits seriously, but this is just my to cents.

    Best of luck,
    Rick
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  • Profile picture of the author ClaraBr
    Banned
    You said you find no interest in the subject of your studies, so money is not the only problem. I think you should find something that truly interests you, and fills you with enthusiasm. I for one have always been told I should be a writer, although what I really wanted was to be a painter. So now I'm trying to "paint with words". My point is, you can either look at your past choices from a new perspective, or simply find something else. Napoleon Hill said: "When desires are strong enough, you will appear to possess superhuman powers to achieve."
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  • Profile picture of the author gcbmark20
    Hi,

    For a start you are ONLY 20 years YOUNG!

    I know things can be a very confusing at your age and you
    have anyone & everyone trying to tell YOU how you should
    live your life, what you should do next etc etc.

    That's why I look back now & laugh at how much of a WORRIER
    I WAS & HOW MUCH OF A WARRIOR I HAVE BECOME!

    These are the things you really need to say to yourself.

    But you know what?

    All the qualities YOU need to make things happen for you
    are already inside of YOU right now!

    But you need someone who is trained to TRAIN YOU and
    bring this GIANT out the is already inside of you.

    I personally recommend any Tony Robbins product to help to
    get YOU WHERE YOU WANT TO BE IN LIFE!

    Whether it be financially, your health, your relationship,
    whatever.

    I have personally used them & they have allowed me to take
    control of my life without being pulled and dragged and pulled
    by the impulses of life like I used to allow myself to do.

    You need to decide what is going to allow you to take control
    and live life on your terms and if you think that this I.M. thing can give
    you this...

    ...Then you simply need to trust yourself, take control and learn from
    someone who is doing it successfully and get all the information you
    can from them on how to do it and start taking action.

    Get momentum as soon as you can!

    You can only build on success and not failure my friend.

    So if you are ready, you'll take action!

    My advice to you is to get clear on what you want, look at building
    a list as soon as possible, create your products, make a clear plan,
    make some financial goals and take action!

    Just think of where you could be in 12 months time if you decide that
    you are ready to take control of your life instead of waiting for your
    parents, friends etc to make the decisions for you.

    Hope this helps & I hope you decide to get a coach to help bring
    the best out in you soon!

    Regards
    Gavin

    "Do the thing you fear and the death of fear is certain."
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  • Profile picture of the author angshuy2k
    Rome wasn't built in a day. I would suggest you to go back to university as you do not need to like all the subjects or the topics but you can atleast switch the subject to what you like. Ok, suppose you like marketing. Then why not study Bachelor degree in Commerce i.e. Business administration, Marketing, Economics and then slowly add the bits of internet to you known marketing knowledge with the institutional knowledge. Together with your passion and knowledge you can surely build up your marketing empire ship.

    Best wishes,
    Swrajit

    Originally Posted by IMstarter View Post

    Dear Warriors,

    I just recently turned 20 and also decided to drop out of university because I did not like the subject that I was studying. Growing up I never saw myself not going to university but now I am starting to question whether I want to study after all.

    For me it is a very depressing situation. Universities are now demanding even higher grades and fees. Some people will say that having qualifications doesn't guarantee a good job but I believe that it's certainly better to have a degree than not to have one.

    My parents are (understandably) getting sick of paying for me especially when I am not studying and have even jokingly saying that they should have me killed to relieve them of their burden (burden part was made up by me but it's what I have now come to feel like I am as well as a total failure).

    So I decided to give IM a try. And why not? I have been reading and learning about it since I was 14 (especially SEO as I find it the most interesting).

    I had come up with an idea which I thought was good at the time but it's an affiliate product that people buy once and I wouldn't make that much money from it and the little money that I did have went into my previous endeavour.

    So now I am back to square one.

    I have about 8 weeks in which I hope to have made a good start at earning residual income.

    Despite often finding myself extremely down I do have a lot of motivation I just don't know where to start and would be very appreciative of any help.
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  • Profile picture of the author Gary Ning Lo
    Even if i had the opportunity to start IM when i just finished school i would not..

    Go get a degree man.. Then you can start IM PART TIME.. Until you make good money from it

    Cheers,

    Gary
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  • Profile picture of the author Alex Mensah
    I suggest you get a mentor my friend, you don't want to be guessing at this stage where you are at buddy, I diddle daddled for 3 years before going anywhere online so trust me when I say this that the quickest path to your success at this stage where you are at is finding a mentor work out some kind of payment plan and follow their every advice. Do your due diligence research to make sure that they are a legit mentor and it will help you succeed very quickly. I know big names online now that were able to go from broke to quitting their day jobs in less than 8 months because they had a great mentor.
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  • Profile picture of the author Devin X
    Banned
    Originally Posted by IMstarter View Post

    Dear Warriors,

    I just recently turned 20 and also decided to drop out of university because I did not like the subject that I was studying. Growing up I never saw myself not going to university but now I am starting to question whether I want to study after all.
    I'd advise you to stay out of college, especially if you're parents are going to take care of that nasty bill. Why? College degrees are worthless nowadays, and are an unnecessary debt incurred by the young. It's a small mortgage for most people and underemployment is rampant. I'm friends with 21-25 year olds who have specialized degrees like law, engineering, physics, and they're bartenders and baristas. I also know a lot more who have liberal art degrees or other forms of BA's and they're just as screwed up. They're smart and motivated too, so it's not like they're being lazy or unwilling to travel and whatnot.

    Dropping out was probably the best thing you could have done. Seriously. The game has changed and people aren't catching on quite yet, but the party's over. It's much smarter for a HS graduate to enter the workforce, live at home as long as they can, and invest as much as they can, because they'll have more money and less debt than their contemporaries by the time they're 25. It's all about the hustle...not the "education".

    Even if you can find a job that pays decent, you'll be doing what other graduates are doing...but you'll have no debt and you'll be younger too. Those are major benefits right there.
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    • Profile picture of the author MatthewM
      College is a waste of money.

      I dropped out early and didn't feel the full effects my brother did.

      He is still $60,000 in debt with computer science degree from 2004 which is pretty much outdated. He can't get a job in his major to save his life.

      I dropped out because I was already a master in my course of study. Photoshop Graphic Design. I felt like a senior in a kindergarten class.

      I was already making a livings wage as a freelancer at the time. College was just costing me money

      Naturally I dropped out.

      And now I don't even do graphic work other than for myself. I'm not willing to work for less than $50hr doing graphical design not to mention ever since IM I've been a fan of white paper. Now any kids with half decent talent with a bootleg copy of photoshop can price me out of the market.

      Glad I didn't waste 4 years.

      Just do what you feel is best for you and don't let people lead you to believe they are an authority on what is best for you.

      WEU World Education University is a free online college. It is not accredited but has been awarded degree-granting status by the state of California. Other states will follow. Course of study are limited to computer science or business.
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  • Profile picture of the author pingsters
    Banned
    I think in the first place you made blander to drop out of University.You should have worked on earning those skills and a degree at the end of it and at the same time do your IM as part time activity.
    I would suggest you go back to college,earn that degree,get a regular job then you can now start working on building your IM business since you now have money to do that.
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    • Profile picture of the author Devin X
      Banned
      Originally Posted by pingsters View Post

      I think in the first place you made blander to drop out of University.You should have worked on earning those skills and a degree at the end of it and at the same time do your IM as part time activity.
      I would suggest you go back to college,earn that degree,get a regular job then you can now start working on building your IM business since you now have money to do that.
      That's absolutely terrible advice.
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      • Profile picture of the author celente
        Originally Posted by TheRealDudeman View Post

        That's absolutely terrible advice.
        yes I agree there.

        I think the most important thing is if you want to turn you life around you mentality has to change. Its hard for some, and you have to be willing to work hard, and 99% of people do not want to do that. The 1% that do, always get ahead, and do not listen to others that put them down.
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  • Profile picture of the author jocke1099
    You have to do something about the depression you suffer from. You are 20 and don't need your parents, what do you care what they think.

    You have to toughen up kid.

    Going back to university will only make you work for another person, that is one of the most stupid inventions ever.

    Go for your passion kid...

    If IM is your passion...what are our waiting for.
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  • Profile picture of the author Joe Mobley
    IMstarter,

    "University" is not your problem.

    "IM" is not the solution.

    Your lazy thinking and undisciplined work habits created the results you now have in your life.

    Originally Posted by IMstarter View Post

    So now I am back to square one.
    Yep. This is just another loop though a vicious cycle.

    If you don't fix this, you are in for a painful and unfulfilled life.

    Joe Mobley
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  • Profile picture of the author PeepMyCollar
    I just finished reading Mark Cuban's book and he went over a similar situation like yours.

    His suggestion? Go get a job in sales. Selling is the one skill you always need no matter what job or career path you're in. I didn't get it before, but after trying up to 10 different jobs in the past several years, it's completely true.

    Doesn't mean you have to stop your IM endeavors. Selling in person will help you sell online. You can always go backing to IM after 6 months to a year of learning how to sell.
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  • Profile picture of the author TeamBringIt
    Originally Posted by IMstarter View Post

    Dear Warriors,

    I just recently turned 20 and also decided to drop out of university because I did not like the subject that I was studying. Growing up I never saw myself not going to university but now I am starting to question whether I want to study after all.

    For me it is a very depressing situation. Universities are now demanding even higher grades and fees. Some people will say that having qualifications doesn't guarantee a good job but I believe that it's certainly better to have a degree than not to have one.

    My parents are (understandably) getting sick of paying for me especially when I am not studying and have even jokingly saying that they should have me killed to relieve them of their burden (burden part was made up by me but it's what I have now come to feel like I am as well as a total failure).

    So I decided to give IM a try. And why not? I have been reading and learning about it since I was 14 (especially SEO as I find it the most interesting).

    I had come up with an idea which I thought was good at the time but it's an affiliate product that people buy once and I wouldn't make that much money from it and the little money that I did have went into my previous endeavour.

    So now I am back to square one.

    I have about 8 weeks in which I hope to have made a good start at earning residual income.

    Despite often finding myself extremely down I do have a lot of motivation I just don't know where to start and would be very appreciative of any help.
    Honestly, many of the top money makers, either dropped-out of college...or simply never went to college. Having a degree, in today's world, does not guarantee a job. If you are an entrepreneur, possibly take some business classes and then get started on doing business and possibly running your own corporation.

    Actual experience is way more important, than theories that are taught is school. That experience, will make you money in the real world. Don't be hard on yourself, just stay with your entrepreneurial spirits and make something happen.

    I will say this much, all rich people and the mega millionaires have always believed in education and learning. This means, that if you choose not to go to college/school, at least read books on business and advertising and keep reading and learning.

    If you keep educating yourself, the world of opportunities can open up, in ways you never imagined! Keep going for your dreams!
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  • Profile picture of the author Dan Riffle
    They say the failure rate in IM is 95% (most likely higher)
    The national unemployment rate as of June was 7.6%.

    So, the vast majority of people fail at internet marketing and the vast majority of people succeed at having a job.

    Advantage: job

    It's common knowledge that degree holders earn considerably more over a life time than those with just high school diplomas. The last I read, a bachelor's degree is worth a minimum of an additional $500,000 in life time earnings. Advanced degrees garner even more.

    Advantage: education.

    Yes, many million- and billionaires have no advanced education. However, you have to consider the converse: what's the percentage of those without advanced education at or below the poverty line compared to that of those with advanced education? What's the comparison of high income earners with and without higher education? (I could find the data for you, but it'd probably have more weight if you discovered it yourself.)

    Exceptionalism usually rises to the top. That's what you see with high income earners without advanced degrees. They are exceptional at what they do and succeeded in spite of advanced education.

    Ultimately, you're making a bet with yourself and your future is your ante. Are you exceptional? Nothing personal because I don't know you, but I doubt it. The law of averages dictate against it. Of course, it's not my bet. It's yours.

    Before tossing the money in the kitty, take an honest inventory of yourself. Do you really have what it takes to persevere? Does the cut of your jib (dear God, how old am I?!) lend itself to entrepreneurship?

    If you have any doubt, take an interest inventory, change majors and get back in school. It's considerably easier to knock out your education while you're younger. As someone said earlier, the older you get, the more life gets in the way. You don't want a full time job you hate (because you don't have the education or skill for something you do), a screaming baby, a house payment, two car payments, medical bills, AND night school.
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    Raising a child is akin to knowing you're getting fired in 18 years and having to train your replacement without actively sabotaging them.

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  • Profile picture of the author Joe J
    Imstarter,

    Walkaway from college and anything else that doesn't interest you, walkaway now from it, walk away later from this that and the other things if it doesn't interest you.

    It took me a very long time to think like this. Like many others have said, degrees aren't any type of guarantees that you are going to be successful using it. Well, it can, only if you ARE interested in it and you are not. And that's very ok.

    Make the decision that you have to and turn and burn with your passion.(If it's even a passion, but find something)

    If you decide your new passion doesn't interest you, walk away from that also.
    And if the next passion grows uninteresting, walk away from that one, and so on.

    Not everyone has the personality type to stay with the first thing they were interested in, or persuaded to, especially at 20 or 18,19 whatever age that you started college. Probably even earlier than that , when the plans to go to or send you (parents) to college.

    Whether things work out or they don't, whether you can live off of small or large earnings, if you can be happy all the while, then in my eyes, you are WINNING!

    You have an interest in SEO That is something that I read alot of people here don't care for.
    SEO is what helps bring traffic. Like someone else here mentioned, just about every job requires you to sell something in one form or another and I think the same is true with SEO and driving traffic(sales) in IM.

    A couple of people here also mentioned you should get some kind of help, a mentor if you will.

    I'm pretty sure that if you have SEO skills and can drive traffic, someone will be more than happy to help you in exchange.

    And about that happy talk, you should work on that because you will find that not many people want to be around unhappy people often(except maybe more unhappy people).

    Do what interests you and not what interests others.

    And when you can help it, be a burden on yourself, not others.

    Good Luck buddy,

    Joe

    Oh yeah, the movie "Into the Wild" might get you in the right frame of mind. I'm not talking about going to the extreme that young man went to, but just the premise might get you thinking about your life's goal. Great movie soundtrack too!
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  • Profile picture of the author jimmyvanilla
    Whether you decide to stay at university, get a job or tackle IM...

    Think carefully about what you do decide to do next and make a decision that whatever it is, whatever you choose to do, you'll commit in some serious way so you can have the experience of ACHIEVING something significant.

    A degree isn't the be-all-and-end-all in life by any means, but it can certainly open a lot of doors. It's the EXPERIENCE of ACHIEVING a degree that is most useful for most people who pursue that path, just as ACHIEVING something else is what drives people who don't study at university on to ACHIEVING more and more impressive things in their lives.

    IMHO
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  • Profile picture of the author canada94
    BEWARE THE DREAM STEALERS... If you are not academic, it doesn't mean you are thick.
    You have 8 weeks to get something going, affiliate marketing is a good place to start, but you may need a little cash to buy some traffic at the start.
    You need to start now by deciding what route you want to go, then take 'massive action', or your short window will be closed.

    Good luck, hope this helps

    Kevin
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    [B]If you are looking to turn your ebook into an Amazon bestseller,then visit http://babystepspublishinglimited.com,and let me help you

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  • Profile picture of the author Fancypants
    I think the first thing you should complete your studies, and then consider how to make money.
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  • Profile picture of the author 1isabella
    I think the answer is within you, Take some time to think and meditate. Take some flash back, your good times, bad times, your achievements and disappointments, your mistakes, greatest breakthroughs and you will come to see where best fits you. Take it easy.
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  • Profile picture of the author MKCookins
    To be honest, 8 weeks is not enough time to start making a good income from internet marketing unless you already have a profitable funnel in place, and know how to drive traffic to your website.

    Realistically it takes people around 6 months or more before they start seeing a regular income online. The reason this is, because it takes learning new skills, and testing to see what works and what does not work for you personally.

    If I were you, and wanted to make some money within that time... While setting up my online business, I would do freelance work.

    Some good sites are:
    Elance
    Odesk
    Iwriter
    Fiverr

    You can do several different jobs, like: writing, creating videos, promoting people's sites/products, etc etc.

    Remember internet marketing takes investing both time and money into it before you will see any income. If if were easy, then everyone would be doing it and the failure rate would not be over 90%

    Good luck in your future online business.
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  • Profile picture of the author Fazal Mayar
    Get a degree and work on IM at the same time thats the best solution
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    Blogger at RicherOrNot.com (Make Money online blog but also promoting ethical internet marketing)

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    • Profile picture of the author AlexGeorge
      Originally Posted by Fazal Mayar View Post

      Get a degree and work on IM at the same time thats the best solution
      This is what I would recommend. Most courses are flexible enough for you to fit IM into your life as well. Having a degree is great if things don't work out straight away, and it means you have a better chance of getting a good paying job that you could use to invest in your internet marketing endeavors.
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  • Profile picture of the author aceshigh888
    oh wow....all in 8 weeks??? That's pretty ambitious.

    I'll tell you something about university though. It's my opinion but there's actually 2 levels of university. 1) You attend and graduate with a degree ... or ... 2) you just attended and then dropped out.

    The key is both count on a resume. So on your resume you just say: "Attended the UofC or whatever studying X and maybe say the dates if it's been over a year." But don't say you dropped out. Just say you attended.

    It still looks good on a resume. It still makes you look educated. And that's all employers want in most cases. They want to see that at least they had the marks to "get in", and at least they were trying.

    I'm trying to tell my lil bro that who's your age. Either one looks likely just as good to an employer.

    As for IM, it's tough out there. But if you come across something that works, it could set you up for life.
    Signature
    EXERCISE: Take a deep breath, hold for 10 seconds, release. ..... There see you feel better now???
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  • Profile picture of the author aceshigh888
    You got to become the Zuckerburg first, then you'll realize that it's not the web that bends but your own mind
    Signature
    EXERCISE: Take a deep breath, hold for 10 seconds, release. ..... There see you feel better now???
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  • Profile picture of the author sunnyc
    Seems you are at the same point a lot of people have been at one (or several) times in their lives. It is only human to feel a little lost, just shake it off, focus on something, and try to stick it out. Having a degree helps, but is by no means a guarantee to the great life. Seems you need to look inward to know yourself better, follow your passions, and you will find that study or work will seem less so just because you love what you do.

    I've only been on this forum a short while, but I can assure you that it is a treasure trove of info and motivation. All the best!
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  • Profile picture of the author sbucciarel
    Banned
    Pick a major you like. You can always learn IM while in university, but you have no idea if you will succeed at it. An education can open doors your whole life.
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  • Profile picture of the author Michael Franklin
    If you find SEO very interesting, let me suggest that you try selling SEO services or web design. As mentioned in a post above, selling is a skill that is always in demand.

    Why not have the best of both worlds? Work on your passion as well as selling and you will always come out ahead.

    The nice thing is that you have an entire subforum on Warrior Forum devoted to Offline Marketing. Start there and you'll find some great ideas. You should have no problem seeing results in less than your 8 week timeframe.
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  • Profile picture of the author dnovacek
    You sound a lot like my son (and that's a good thing!)

    He left junior college after one semester to go to work for a well-known coffee restaurant. I was unhappy, because I had envisioned him doing the four years of college right after HS, which is what I did.

    But - he was a hard worker and worked his way up into management. Great job experience.

    He then got laid off by the company, but was rehired fairly quickly by a well-known hardware/home furnishings company. Again, he's worked his way up the ladder, BUT he also went back to junior college part-time for several years.

    Still employed, he's now going to a private university and working on a degree in Economics. He got into Economics because of his work experience and he loves it.

    He's also just started up his own internet business buying and selling textbooks.

    So - by the time he's 27 he'll have a Bachelor's degree from an esteemed private university, nine years of great work experience, and some knowledge of online business.

    So what does all this mean?

    It means you're not necessarily shutting the door on college if you choose to go another route right now.

    BUT - you do need to work really hard at what you choose to do instead so that these years will really count for something and help you in all your future endeavors.
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  • Profile picture of the author cupcakemonster
    Originally Posted by IMstarter View Post

    Dear Warriors,

    I just recently turned 20 and also decided to drop out of university because I did not like the subject that I was studying. Growing up I never saw myself not going to university but now I am starting to question whether I want to study after all.

    For me it is a very depressing situation. Universities are now demanding even higher grades and fees. Some people will say that having qualifications doesn't guarantee a good job but I believe that it's certainly better to have a degree than not to have one.

    My parents are (understandably) getting sick of paying for me especially when I am not studying and have even jokingly saying that they should have me killed to relieve them of their burden (burden part was made up by me but it's what I have now come to feel like I am as well as a total failure).

    So I decided to give IM a try. And why not? I have been reading and learning about it since I was 14 (especially SEO as I find it the most interesting).

    I had come up with an idea which I thought was good at the time but it's an affiliate product that people buy once and I wouldn't make that much money from it and the little money that I did have went into my previous endeavour.

    So now I am back to square one.

    I have about 8 weeks in which I hope to have made a good start at earning residual income.

    Despite often finding myself extremely down I do have a lot of motivation I just don't know where to start and would be very appreciative of any help.
    You're totally right - having a good degree doesn't guarantee a job but you do stand a better chance of getting a job with a degree.

    I'm not the biggest fan of formal education - I have a double major from a top tier university and a master's degree that I don't use - but even if I could do it all over again, I'd get my diploma(s).

    That being said, if I was 20 and in your shoes, here's what I'd do differently: I'd get myself into the cheapest, best school I could even if it required sending massive applications out again and going through the hassle of transferring. One of my biggest regrets to this day is the amount my parents spent on my private university. It was a good experience, but NOT worth the monetary investment at ALL. You can get the same education at a cheaper school. If I were you, and really worried about the school tuition, I'd even consider transferring to a European university - many of them are cheaper and you can find courses in English as well as get international experience in the meantime.

    I'd also major in at least one very practical major, like accounting. And while in school, I'd focus most of my efforts to building a residual income stream for myself. 'Cause let's face it, no matter how crammed your college schedule is, it's nothing like working a full-time job. You have SO MUCH time while in college. Stay in school but make good use of that time to build up a residual income stream. Set a monetary goal for yourself - how much you'd like to be making every month - and work your a** off so that you'll be graduating college with a positive income flow.

    This is the exact same advice I'm giving to my own sister - who's your age - so that she can get the full awesomeness of a fun college experience as well as spare herself the desperation-fueled job search at the end of her four years in the comfort and security of academia.

    Don't drop out of school. Find a cheaper school if you can. Work your butt off on your business while in school. As for school - do just enough work there to be able to graduate. I've found GPAs to be totally useless (unless you're going to grad school).

    If you can graduate with a college degree and a residual income source, you'll have pretty much every option open to you. Good luck!
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  • Profile picture of the author UncleDearest
    "If someone could point me in the right direction for where I could find a membership that has a cheap trial period for to me to promote that would be great."

    Kid, this line tells me you haven't got a clue. Nothing in that sentence makes any sense yet you state it so matter of factually. Depression, lack of motivation, looking for something where you "don't have to study at all", none of this will work in the IM world.

    Please do yourself a favor and do some serious soul searching. Go get a job and force yourself to support yourself from that job and that job only, for a year. I think you'll find a renewal of "motivation" and desire to study when you truly realize those two qualities offer a way out.

    Sincere best of luck to you. No 20 year old should be depressed and un-motivated.
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  • Profile picture of the author Story
    This thread is months ago.. not sure how is OP doing now.

    But it's rather clear to me that if studying is not what you want to do, then get a job and work on IM as the same time. This way, you buy yourself more time and stop being a burden to your parents. You probably how no idea how difficult is it to save up for college fees.
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  • Profile picture of the author Dalgosusel
    you can work anytime you whenever you have free time.
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  • Profile picture of the author Anirock
    Do what your heart says to do ???

    Without having interest in your subjects , you cannot move forward.
    So - I suggest you to start with IM.

    Although it takes time. Just stand right online. Surely you'll stop somewhere making good money.

    All The Best !!!
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  • Profile picture of the author addyonline
    Some great information in this thread.

    I am almost 20, and I dropped out of high school when I was 16 and left home due to unfavourable circumstances. I started working full-time and have worked for the same company for 3.5 years and have worked my way up from a retail clerk to a Territory Sales Manager. I actually love my job. I have had to study on the side and work my ass off up to 60 hours a week at times. But there are people out there who are in harder situations.

    I do IM on the side because I am even more passionate about that then my real job. I believe that I'm about 9 months from a complete breakthrough in my own business, but I will not leave my day job until my own business is completely sustainable and decent enough income for myself and my wife (dafuq 19 and married - true story lol).

    I can honestly tell you I still have days where I beat myself up because I've gone a few thousand in debt for some past business ventures where I've been screwed over. I get ANGRY at myself because I dropped out of high-school, let alone not going to college?? I KNOW I could have achieved these things. The true passion just makes me hop back on the horse every time though. I have days where I am proud of what I've achieved in a few years and I think... F*** man, I've done this in 3.5, what can I do in 10 years?

    Enough about me, decide what you want from every aspect of your life and write it down. Make it happen for yourself because no one is going to spoon feed you. There are motivated and unmotivated days, whatever you are having is all part of the journey. You need something that DRIVES you... that is greater then just money... then that will help you keep pushing.

    Focused intensity, over time, multiplied by god = Unstoppable momentum.


    Also, I think the education is still a good idea as a backup plan.

    Good luck,
    Adam.
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    The CRO Pro :)
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  • Profile picture of the author Beatinest
    Stay in school. Apply yourself in a worthwhile major and you'll be fine. IM on the side, if you make yourself successful online THEN consider dropping out.
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  • Profile picture of the author Stefan Shields
    I'm in a similar situation to you lol.
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  • Profile picture of the author dsage7
    I dropped out in 2012 too, and don't regret it. My debt could have been worse. I believe universities are indoctrination centers (at least here in the states) rather than learning institutions where free minds gather to learn. IM can save you, but since the only asset you have is time then you should do your best to invest it in anything proven to work!
    I would start at hirewriters and fiverr. Even mechanical turk and microworkers might get you started. I assume you have plenty of time...
    Best of luck!
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