Chapter 1: Debunking Common Myths

As you embark on your journey in the online business realm, you'll encounter a chorus of voices insisting on the essential tools and resources for success. Many will share their personal anecdotes, often resembling a narrative like this:

"When I launched my business, I faced numerous challenges. I spent years struggling without results. Then, I discovered X, and suddenly, my income skyrocketed from $100 a month to $10,000 in just a few months."

These stories often come from product creators or affiliates promoting their offerings. Interestingly, such tales rarely surface in discussions where no financial gain is involved.

While I have no issues with product promotion, I believe many individuals market items as 'must-haves' solely for profit. Consequently, despite investing in three of these products myself, I want to clarify that they aren't necessary.

Business Courses: Are They Worth It?

Today, it seems like everyone is selling business courses. You could likely find at least ten courses right now promising success on various platforms. It's perplexing to see creators whose first product is a course, yet they gain immense popularity as individuals flock to make money online without verifying their credibility.

Many will insist that their course is essential for aspiring creators, claiming it will help you avoid the mistakes they made and accelerate your growth. Unfortunately, this is often misleading. While some education is necessary, the best way to learn is through experience.

I invested over $497 in three significant business courses when I started, but I realized I didn't truly need them. Much of the content was already accessible online. Rather than seeking out expensive courses, I suggest making tangible progress in your business first. When you identify a knowledge gap, consider utilizing platforms like SkillShare or Udemy, which offer various courses for a fraction of the price.

The Illusion of Expensive Tools

When I began my business, I opted for Kajabi, heavily marketed by influencers as the ultimate tool for growth. I found testimonials claiming that switching to Kajabi led to their business success, which left me curious.

However, Kajabi costs nearly $200 per month and comes with limitations on contacts and products. Despite using it for two years, I didn't see any profit. This year, I transitioned to Systeme.io, which provides all necessary features for around $400 a year. They even offer a free plan, allowing you to explore the platform without financial risk.

While Kajabi may offer more advanced features, these are only beneficial once you have an established audience. If you're just starting, expensive tools won't significantly impact your progress.

The Coaching Conundrum

Last year, I invested $2,500 in a coaching package that I never completed. While having a coach can provide support and encouragement, it's not essential and can even be counterproductive early on.

In the beginning, you won't know what strategies will work for you. You might want to experiment with writing, video content, or podcasting. A coach may pressure you into a specific path—either one that benefits their business model or one they believe will yield immediate financial returns.

While making money is essential, it's often easier to earn a steady income from a job in the initial stages of your business. In fact, you're likely to incur losses during your early years, especially if you invest in unnecessary products.

Your ideal business strategy lies at the crossroads of three elements:

1. What you genuinely enjoy doing.
2. Where you can provide the most value to others.
3. What others deem to hold the highest monetary value.

If your coach pushes you toward a coaching business simply because it's lucrative, you may find yourself trapped in a role that doesn't suit you. Thus, I recommend postponing coaching until you have a clear direction for your business.

What You Really Need to Succeed

While expensive courses, tools, and coaching aren't necessary, two vital components for success are hard work and patience. Building a successful business takes time, and those 'overnight successes' often have years of effort behind them.

Unfortunately, many of the aforementioned resources won't expedite your journey—they'll likely just drain your finances during this crucial development period.

Video Description: In "What No One Tells You About Starting a Small Business," gain insights into the often-overlooked realities of launching your own venture.

Video Description: "What They Don't Tell You About Starting a Small Business" explores the truths behind entrepreneurship that many fail to mention.