At several times in my life I have heard something similar to this, “if you’re on time, you’re probably late.” I first heard this from my dad. He was trying to convey to me the importance of being ready to do whatever you needed to do at the time when scheduled. This could apply to work, fun, anything or anywhere you needed to be at any given time. However, this does not always mean that you are late when you are on time. Being on time is a good thing, it’s a necessary thing, it’s the right thing to do and shows respect for others’ time. He was certainly not trying to say that I should be early to a scheduled event for the sake of being early. He was simply trying to convey the message that one should be ready to perform when scheduled. In terms of work that does not mean that one works for free or does not get paid for the time worked. Rather, it means to be ready to work when you are scheduled to begin work. If I get to work and have to take care of a lot of things before I start my work, I’m really not doing the required task, am I? I took this to heart and I am fiercely loyal to a schedule. I next heard this advice from my football coach. It was essentially the same thing. Be ready to perform when you get on the field, have your equipment on, be in the right mindset and be available when called upon to perform. The next time I heard this advice was when I had children and my oldest played on his high school tennis team. His coach was very tough, very strict and demanded excellence at all times. I remember one time when my son arrived on time to practice but did not have his racket out, one shoe was untied and he was not set to play. His coach gave him the business if you know what I mean. Let’s just say coach made his point. My son should have been ready to play when he was scheduled to play. Again, being on time is vitally important and shows respect for the schedule, shows respect for the person who set the schedule, shows respect for your work or product in whatever task you are trying to accomplish…notice the keyword here – “RESPECT!”
Now, I say all these things out of personal conviction. I recently delayed a very important part of my business because I simply didn’t want to do it. If I can admit it, I was a little bit afraid. I was afraid of how I would look, how I would sound and what others would think about me. Because of this delay, I was late in possibly getting some of the needed traffic that I require to run and expand my online business. It’s humbling to admit your faults. I stand (actually write 😊) admitting my fault in being late to something I should have done much earlier in my 
online venture and journey. I have been avoiding creating video content. I kept telling myself and others I just can’t decide. Should I do YouTube or TikTok or Facebook Reels, etc.? Those were all valid questions and decisions that I needed to make but honestly, I was just avoiding the task. I started watching some of my peers’ videos. I started to get a little envious. At first, they seemed nervous but as they created more videos they got better and better. Honestly, I was a little proud of them for putting themselves out there because they initially felt the same way that I did. The difference is they did it while I was just thinking about it.
SO, I DID A THING
With the little encouragement from two people in my Internet Profits community (thank you Atif and Lauren!), I got a TikTok account and created and posted a video. And I waited…and then after a short amount of time I got over 700 views. I was shocked! In my opinion the video was terrible. It was dry, slow and I got the hashtags in the wrong place. But it got a lot of views. Maybe not as many views as others and it certainly didn’t go viral but I really didn’t expect over 700 people to watch me and my stuff! In my excitement I created three others. The next video got 15 views, the following video got 7 views and the following video is currently at 28 views. I’m not worried at all at this point. I actually think that it’s great that even a few are watching my content. I hope that I can learn from this process and I hope that others can learn from me. What’s really funny about my anxiety and fear of creating video content for an audience is that in my former position in the corporate world I was accustomed to speaking in front of very large groups or online meetings. So why is it so challenging and daunting to speak in front of my smartphone on TikTok? Who knows, but for me it is! So here goes, this is a link to my first TikTok video. Let me know what you think. And if you are so inclined, you can watch the few others that I created. I’m now out there for the world to see and I hope to be able to be out there and offer value. Once I decided on my platform, I did a lot of research and looked at other TikTok videos. Specifically, videos in the niche of where I wanted my online business to “live”. I found some good stuff and I also found stuff that I do not want to emulate. It was actually pretty fun to see what others were doing and how they were driving traffic. I caution you though, you can get into a trap of watching video after video after video and then looking at other stuff that has nothing to do with what you are trying to learn about to be successful. And before you know it, you’ve spent a lot of time looking at videos when you could have spent a lot of time planning and creating your videos.
In case you’re curious and considering using TikTok, creating TikTok videos doesn’t require much equipment, but a smartphone with a decent camera is essential. Here’s what you need:
- Smartphone: TikTok is primarily a mobile app, so you’ll need a smartphone with the TikTok app installed. Both iOS and Android devices work fine. With that said, it is possible to create content on a laptop of desktop computer.
- Camera: Most smartphones and computers come with high-quality cameras suitable for shooting TikTok videos. Ensure good lighting for better video quality.
- TikTok App: Download the TikTok app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android). Sign up for an account or log in if you already have one.
- Content Ideas: Plan your content. It could be anything from lip-syncing to music, dancing, comedy sketches, educational content, or challenges. Creativity is key. My content will be online marketing with a few non-related items sprinkled in to break it up some.
- Editing Tools: TikTok provides various editing tools within the app, such as effects, filters, stickers, and text overlays. Familiarize yourself with these tools to enhance your videos. I use CapCut, but there are many other incredible editing tools out there.
- Sound: TikTok videos often incorporate music or audio clips. You can choose from TikTok’s extensive library of songs and sounds, or use your own. Ensure you have the necessary rights for any copyrighted material. On one of my videos, I experimented with adding a sound bite. It was easy!
- Internet Connection: Since TikTok is a social media platform, you’ll need a stable internet connection to upload your videos.
- Optional Accessories: While not necessary, some creators use additional accessories like tripods, selfie sticks, external microphones, or ring lights to improve the quality of their videos. I purchased a Gimble that helps to keep my smartphone stable when I walk and talk, a microphone that clips to my clothing and I also use a ring light when not outdoors with good sunlight. I found that the microphone was the most beneficial accessory. I did a test video with and without the microphone and by far having the microphone provided the most clarity and audio.
People closer to my age will remember an old commercial from a watch company that goes “it takes a licking but keeps on ticking.” I thought that was funny as I was thinking about this
blog because I’m using the TikTok platform and that’s what a watch does…it ticks. I just hope I do not take a “licking.” 😊 The next time I think of an opportunity to benefit my business I will, hopefully, dive in sooner rather than choose to be late. Now I’m going to choose not to dwell on the fact I was late to create video content and going forward, take the steps necessary to progress down this journey. I truly appreciate you following me and if I can be of any assistance, please don’t hesitate to let me know. What are you avoiding because you are uncomfortable? What opportunity might you be missing as a result? If you are avoiding something that you can be doing and something that can help you, I encourage you to just go for it and be on time so you won’t be late and miss out on greatness!
“You may delay, but time will not.” – Benjamin Franklin
“One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today.” – Dale Carnegie
“You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.” – Abraham Lincoln
And, of course, a few bad DAD Jokes!
“Why did the TikToker bring a ladder? To reach the highest ‘views’!”
“Why did the camera always feel lonely? Because it was ‘focused’ on its work!”
Until next time, STAY FRESH, friends!
**If you are curious about this process and wish to know more about an affiliate marketing business, please subscribe to my newsletter here to learn more. And please continue following my blog. My hope is not only to create the freedom I so long for but pass on what I have learned to others who have similar aspirations.
Good work on the TikTok. I feel we are all on to something that hasn’t quite happened, yet! But it’s on its way!
I agree! I can’t wait to see what happens and I am practicing patience until we see that something! Thanks for your visit. Kate!
Hi Ernie,
Thanks for your insight into making videos on TikTok. I had seen the ring lights in the shops but was not sure if they worked well.
You looked comfortable and confident in front of the camera for your first time!
Well done and I am looking forward to following you on your journey.
Cheers Regina
Thank you so much! I was pretty nervous and still am, truth be told. But I am, getting used to it little by little. The ring light is really nice and I got a good deal on it through Amazon. I really only use it on my PC. Have a great week and thanks for your visit!
Hi, Ernie!
A big Congratulations to you, my Friend!
Way to go, delving in. I feel I am putting off YouTube. I’m making such tiny steps forward. I need to film something, stick it out there, and let the next one be better.
You’ve really encouraged me! I am glad for you!
Nakina
Thaks so much! I was really nervous about putting myself out there and the negative comments. But I really do not have much of a following to receive a lot of negative (or positive) comments. I encourage you to try it out. If you want to send me a video to look at, I’ll be happy to check it out for you. Thanks for your visit!
OHMAGOSH! How about that… I got a shout out?! (I’m blushing a little now!) I couldn’t be more proud of you after reading this post. It takes A LOT of course to start posting videos… and it almost got the best of me. I’m glad I helped inspire you to create your videos, however you get all the glory, my friend. You were absolutely excellent. And inspiring… because as you understand, it’s not easy putting yourself out there.
I think your post may certainly be the best thing I’ve read all week! (It may or may not have something to do with the fact that I got a shout out…). In all seriousness… Congratulations, my friend. You should be VERY PROUD!
Hey – Of Course you’d get a shout out! Credit given to credit due! I would have probably done it anyway, but your encouragement heled my finally make the decision quicker. I appreciate your support, help and advice. I am glad it did not get the best either of us. So, here’s to our success as we venture out to this video world! Take care and have a great week!
Good job stepping out there and making some TikTok Videos. I’ve been researching it a bit, and was watching some Khaby Lame videos (he’s got around 160 million subscribers), I was amazed out how simple his videos are, and how low quality the production value of his videos are – absolutely nothing fancy, but just great content. It’s good to know it doesn’t take a bunch of investment in equipment.
Thaks, Nathan! I’m going to need to check out Khaby to try and get an idea of his secret. Hope you are well and thanks for the visit and comment. Have a great week!
Ernie I love how you shared your journey with creating TikTok content! It’s awesome how you tackled your fears and dived into a new platform. Your transparency about not delaying opportunities, even when they’re uncomfortable, hits home. I struggle with creating videos, turning the camera on, not sure what to say, forgetting to follow the formulate, starting with a hood, tell a story, ending with a call to action. They say you need to make a 100 videos before they get good, so I just keep going. Your determination to overcome challenges and embrace opportunities is truly inspiring. Can’t wait to see more of your TikTok journey!
Thanks, Alison! I’ve got a long way to go to get to 100 videos, but I am willing to put in the work. I feel so goofy just talking to my phone. I know, that’s silly as I have the potential to talk to thousands if my content ever decides to break out of its current viewership. You don’t seem to struggle from my end of the screen.
You always look so polished and your content is great. It is obvious you plan out your thoughts. Hey, how do you do it all? I follow you on your blog and you are so busy. See you on Monday with Sophie’s call and hope your new gig is going well! Take care and have a great week!
Ernie, you’re a natural! Seriously, what great videos you’ve made! We are so hard on ourselves. You are only taking a licking on yourself, but you are ticking, my friend. I love this blog post, and I admire your bravery in putting yourself out there. You are going to do so well! I look forward to following you more on your journey.
Hi Vanessa! Thank you so very much. I really was nerve-racking and I hope to be more comfortable soon! I appreciate your comments and hope to deliver more videos soon. Have a great week!
Ernie,
Congratulations for finding the courage to post your first video. I thought it was great. Keep posting more and more and I know you will get more comfortable as you go along. Keep up your momentum!
Sherri
Thank you, Sherri – I appreciate that your found it to be fine and I hope I did not embarrass myself too much. I really am more animated that that video. It was funny to watch it back. I should be able to inject more personality the more I do them. Thanks for your comment and visit!
I hate being late for anything, and I hate when people are late so it was a pleasure to read there is someone out there that has been taught the same.
I saw your TikTok videos this week, I was so pleased for you. Don’t worry about the views, don’t focus on them, just focus on your videos and what you can do next. It’s a strange universe TikTok! I can’t wait to see your videos this week- good luck!
We are the same – I also hate being late. It is just who I am. Thank you for visiting mu TikTok videos as well as my blog. And I appreciate your advice! Have a great week!
Ernie, Thanks for sharing your journey, it’s inspiring to see you stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing TikTok! Your honesty about procrastination resonates with many of us, and it’s commendable that you’re taking proactive steps to progress. Your detailed tips for TikTok beginners are really helpful, especially the reminder to focus on creating content rather than getting lost in endless browsing. Looking forward to seeing more of your valuable insights on your platform! Keep up the great work! Atif
As always, thank you for your kindness and support! It really is you and Lauren that pushed me over the edge to try out TikTok and I truly appreciate your encouragement! I am a big fan of yours and I can see how far you have come. Take care and thanks for your visit!
Hi Ernie,
Good for you! I think your video was great!! I’m the same way. Very nervous to post my first video. I can only imagine everything going wrong when I actually do it… 😂 I’m gonna follow you on TikTok, so I can see how you do it for when I get brave enough to jump on there myself. Congratulations on your 700 viewers! keep up the good work. Thank you!
Meredith
Thank you! You are so kind! I can’t wait to see you out on TikTok. I wish you tons of success. Thanks for your visit!
Ernie,
Your blog post beautifully illustrates the importance of timely action and overcoming personal barriers. It’s inspiring to see you push past fear and embrace new challenges, like creating TikTok content for your business. Your journey reflects the essence of growth and resilience.
Keep shining and sharing your insights—it’s a beacon for others facing similar hesitations.
CJ
Thank you, CJ! Your kind thoughts are just what I needed to hear today. I appreciate your visit and best wishes!