Last month I was feeling kind of… blah. I know that’s not a technical or scientific term but that’s how I was feeling. I wasn’t terribly unhappy. Nothing major or life changing happened. Overall, I suppose felt okay. I was just not motivated and was very low energy. Things have been kind of stagnant for me. I’m generally an upbeat and happy person and I try to live life the best way I can. I was not quite my usual self and was just going through the motions.
I am a member of the board for a nationally recognized pediatric cancer organization. This organization does incredible things for children who have been diagnosed with cancer, it supports their families and provides funds for research in the attempt to eradicate this horrible disease. In short, I am honored to be on the board and to support and serve this incredible organization!
One of the main fundraisers that this organization sponsors is a 5K Run in our local area. In addition to the funds it raises, this run it provides much needed exposure and education about this cause. As I mentioned in a previous post I used to be a runner so naturally I get excited about this event every year.
This year I was chosen to work the registration desk for the run. As I assisted with the check in of the runners I was moved by their generosity and their desire to “run” for these children and their families. It was a lot of work and, not to mention miserably hot and humid that morning but it did not matter to me. My wife worked the event with me and we were energized by the other volunteers, the runners, the race promoters, and most importantly the real heroes who will receive the benefits of this run… the children and their families!
At the conclusion of the run, we assisted in cleanup and disassembly of the registration desk. While I did not run, I was exhausted from the early arrival and from the work we accomplished that day. But while I was tired, I was also energized!
I was so happy to have served and so honored to be part of this cause that I seemed to forget the feeling of blah. I had found my energy and it was just the shot in the arm that I needed to get motivated again.
Service to others will do that – at least for me. When I’m serving others I often forget about my issues or concerns and focus on the needs of someone else. That is exactly what this work did for me that day. It has been several weeks and I am still “running” (pun intended) on the feeling and energy that I received that day.
So, what does this have to do with running an online business? Well, I’m glad you asked! Running my business has everything to do with service and providing value. I totally and completely believe in what I’m doing and what I have to offer can help many people, especially those like me trying to make a go at it in affiliate marketing.
The products and services that I represent are amazing and I am proud to be an ambassador and stand behind their value. In short, I’m invested! A different way to say it is I’m an owner not a renter in my online business.
That’s exactly what the products I represent and the services are… valuable! When I focused on the value that I can provide I feel that same energy that I felt at the run that day. I am
helping others with their business and helping others achieve their dreams. I’m encouraging people to realize their potential and the possibility of success on their own terms.
I was discussing this concept with some of my peers and fellow collaborators in this business and they agree that providing value in customer service is key not only for success, but also for self-validation. I will not apologize for wanting to feel good and serving others makes me feel good.
I recently read a blog by a good friend of mine named Sarah. Her post was all about kindness. You can read it here and I encourage you to follow her as she so eloquently described what it means to be kind and why we should practice the art of kindness. It truly is an amazing and eye-opening read!
Everything I have read and everything I have learned has led up to this; providing value for my customers and to support their efforts to be successful. I have learned that if I am relatable and transparent in my efforts and have a true desire to want to help others I will succeed. I believe this fact with all of my heart.
I’ve been blogging now for some time and I hope that my posts have added value and have made people think. As I researched my ideas prior to posting and documenting my progress, I can honestly say that I have done it with the reader in mind. Sure, I have felt good writing these blogs. They have made me happy as I recount and relive my crazy life but I hope they are helpful to others as well.
You may note that I always finish with a few quotes that I hope are motivational and a few terrible dad jokes. I’m a big believer in motivation and listening to people who are a lot smarter than me and also providing some levity. If we can’t laugh sometimes, we are in a world of hurt… at least that’s my opinion.
Here are a few ideas that have helped me stay motivated and get me out of the blahs:
- I stop what I’m doing, breathe and think about my progress and how far I’ve come even if it’s just a few steps.
- I try to do something nice for somebody unannounced. It doesn’t have to cost a lot, or any, money at all. I like to give compliments to the people most important to me and sometimes strangers (in a non-creepy way).
- I take a walk or go for a drive and do something that is completely different from what’s making me feel unmotivated. I like to listen to music, I like to practice
gratitude by being honestly thankful for all that I have and I like to pray. I like to take this time for myself and this usually puts me in a different mood and mindset. You might laugh, but I like to do these things while I mowing the lawn. I usually finish that activity feeling better about myself and my situation with the added benefit of a freshly mowed lawn. - I break away and spend time with those that I love. For me, there is no better medicine than seeing my grandchildren, hearing their small (but loud) voices, listening to their giggles and appreciating that they know nothing but love and feel safe. Equally gratifying is spending time with my pretty wife – just taking a drive, going out to dinner, seeing a movie, going to a live event like a concert or baseball game. I am very grateful that she puts up with me with all my annoying habits and bad jokes!
- Finally, if I’m so inclined, I do something big that takes time, effort and sometimes an investment. An example of this would be volunteering to be on the board of a philanthropic organization, spending a Saturday or a day off helping those less fortunate or a number of other things that might help me refocus on serving others rather than focusing on my own circumstances.
When I do these things, I find that my mindset changes and I become more grateful for what I have and I tend to be happier. Once I’m in that place I am not only better for those around me and my business but I also feel better about myself.
So, I will close now in hopes that you find that one thing or things that motivate you to be the best you can be not only in business, but as a resident of planet earth. For me, it happens to be serving others and providing value.
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” – Martin Luther King Jr.
“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill
And of course, a few VERY BAD Dad jokes:
Why did the carpenter get a promotion?
Because he “nailed” every task and added value with every swing!
Why did the gardener get a bonus? Because they really “grew” the value of the company!
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.
Hi Ernie, when you think about it, what we are doing with our blogs, videos, reels etc is an attempt to help others feel better about themselves, and motivate them to help someone else. I appreciate your thoughts about this and sharing Sarah’s blog about kindness IS an act of kindness, too.
Happy Blog Hopping!
Hi Kate – Yes, I see your point! Kindness can be contagious and that is something I am happy to catch. You very much for your visit and for your support! Have a wonderful week!
Ernie you are truly an amazing kind person who seems to be kept very busy. It is wonderful being a grandparent as they bring us so much joy and happiness . Your work for the organization that looks after child cancer patients is an inspiration and shows the dedication and love you have for humanity.
Thank you for sharing your friend Sarah’s post. I never thought that was a possibility to do when blogging. I really enjoyed reading her post. Kindness towards others and receiving even just a smile in return does make you feel better. It is always better to give than to receive.
I really enjoy the jokes at the end of your posts too!
Hi Regina – Thank you for your very nice comments. It is my honor and my privilege to serve this organization and to see all the wonderful things they do for these children and for the families. As you mentioned, I am very busy but it is a good busy. Yes, Sarah and quite a few others have wonderful blogs that support not only their business but add value in so many more ways. I love to check out their blogs and I’m open to looking at others as well. Have a great day and a fantastic week!
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt and inspiring post! Your journey of rediscovering motivation through service is a powerful reminder of how giving back can reignite our sense of purpose and energy. It’s truly uplifting to see how your involvement with the pediatric cancer organization brought you renewed vigor and positivity. I often find more enjoyment in helping others achieve their goals than working on my own stuff. Making a difference in someone else’s life resonates deeply with me, as this is the fuel that keeps me going. And as always, I appreciate your dad jokes. They add a mix of both motivation and humor—two essential elements for a fulfilling life. Look forward to your post next week!
Hi Alison – I know you get it as I see you helping so many people. I include myself in that list! Your video content as well as your blogs have helped me understand affiliate marketing and this online world as well. As I have mentioned to you before I am in awe of your time management skills and someday, I hope to scratch the surface of accomplishing more in the time that I have each day. I obviously want to make this business work and be profitable to support my family and my philanthropic priorities, however equally important is the goal to add value in whatever way I can. Have a great week, my friend!
Hi Ernie,
Reading about your experience with the pediatric cancer organization and the 5K run really touched me. It’s clear how passionate you are about making a meaningful impact, and it’s incredibly inspiring.
Your approach to business, focusing on providing value and helping others, is something I admire. It’s a reminder that success is not just about numbers but about making a positive difference in people’s lives.
Those dad jokes at the end? They always bring a smile to my face!
Keep shining your light, Ernie. Looking forward to more updates from you.
Meredith
Hi Meredith – You are so kind with your comments! Thank you for your visits and for your openness to my ideas and yes, even my bad dad jokes. 🙂 I appreciate you and your blog as well and will give you your compliment to me right to you while I say you “keep shining!” Have a great weekend and a great week!
Reading your weekly blogs, I learn more and more about you as a person. You being on the board of an organization doesn’t surprise me. Your community are VERY lucky to have you. Your story about finding energy and motivation through serving others is so right. It’s the best feeling. Being part of such an impactful event and seeing firsthand how it benefits children and their families must have been incredibly rewarding. It’s amazing how giving back can re-energize us and shift our focus.
Providing value and helping others is key, and it’s clear you’re passionate about what you do. I get value from your blogs on a weekly basis, and for that I’m very grateful. Your tips for staying motivated, from small acts of kindness to spending quality time with loved ones, are fantastic and practical. Plus, I love the idea of doing something big and meaningful to break out of a funk—so powerful!
Thanks for sharing your journey and these motivational nuggets. Keep spreading positivity and doing what you love!
Hi Sarah – Selfishly, I was hoping you would visit my blog this week as I found value and motivation in one of your previous blog posts. That post helped to inspire me to write this edition. Yes, giving back is not only important to me it is important to the community that I belong to and to those less fortunate by no choice of their own. I find that giving back helps me more than what I give, if I can be totally honest. The intent is not for selfish reasons, but it is nice to know that one can get a good feeling and be motivated by hoping others. Thank you so very much for your nice comments and for your visit to my little blog. Have a wonderful week, my friend!
That is very commendable of you volunteering to be on the board of a philanthropic organization.
I have a friend here in Canada who has a brain injury. And he spends much of his time raising money for kids with cancer by cycling. And he is always collecting empty cans and bottles for which he gets money to give to the sick kids hospital in Toronto. The annual event that he supports is happending in August and it’s called The Great Cycle Challenge. I’m sure they have something similar state side.
It’s just a great message all around that service to others will help us with mindset changes and being more gratefull for what we have…getting us out of the blahs.
Thank you for your very nice comments and for your visit to my blog post. Yes, it does give great personal satisfaction to be able to serve and then when you see the results of your service it makes it that much better! I hope to always be in a position where I am able to serve. One of my goals is to earn enough where I can live relatively comfortably enough and donate a huge chunk of my time to this organization. Thanks again, and have a great day!
Having read this blog post, I can only say I am honoured to know you albeit in an online capacity. Your generosity is unbounded; what you do for others is truly inspirational. Your post gave me immense pleasure whilst reading it.
Hi Andy – Thank you for your very nice comments! However, it is truly my honor to serve in this capacity. There are so many people out there that need help in situations out of their control. The least I can do is to give back a little bit even if it’s just time. Have a wonderful week!
Hey, Ernie!
Your post is incredibly uplifting! It sounds like you’ve been on quite the journey, from feeling a bit “blah” to finding energy and purpose through your work with the pediatric cancer organization. That’s truly inspiring.
I lost my cousin to cancer when he was just 13… Being part of something that makes such a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families must be incredibly fulfilling. It’s amazing how serving others can renew our spirits and remind us of what’s most important.
Your description of the 5K Run was so vivid—I could almost feel the energy and hear the laughter you experienced that day despite the Texas heat. Clearly, your involvement in this event lifted your own spirits and left a lasting impact on those you served.
I loved how you connected this experience to your online business journey. Your passion for providing value and helping others succeed really shines through. It’s so true that when we focus on what we can give rather than what we can get, we benefit others and feel a deep sense of meaning and purpose.
My preacher tells me to give what I am wanting. If I need to smile, smile at someone. If I need to laugh, tell a joke. If I need to feel loved, serve.
Thank you for sharing your story and spreading kindness through your blog every week. Your authenticity and enthusiasm are infectious, and I daresay that your posts make a difference in your readers’ lives. I know they do mine! Keep up the fantastic work, and remember to “stay fresh” as you continue to inspire others!
Looking forward to your next post. Until then, keep shining!
Nakina
Hi Nakina – What a wonderful reply to my post. I woke up this morning to catch up on where I needed to be in my business and started with reading your response. This was a fantastic way for me to start the day… better than a cup of coffee. Thank you for your nice comments and for your visit to my blog. I really can’t express my appreciation for your visits and for especially this comment. Thank you! Now, I don’t know who your preacher is, but I plan to apply his advice as it is amazing, “If I need to smile, smile at someone. If I need to laugh, tell a joke. If I need to feel loved, serve.” Have a wonderful week ahead!
Ernie you are man of many talents. Your experience with Appling service to others is a much needed function these days. It will serve you well in all your endeavors. Here’s to your continued success!
H Ken – Thank you very much for your nice comments and thoughts. I don’t know if I’m a man of many talents, but I do enjoy what I do and sometimes that is helping others. I often find that when I help others, they help me back. Have a great day!
Hi Ernie,
Loved your post! You are so active in your life and engaged in some very heart felt service to others!
Your life style and the effort you make to make life better for others is very inspiring and I believe a key to a happy life.
Also a key to an overall successful life and business. Although you don’t give for the purpose of getting, you will gain from the help you provide. It was Zig Ziglar who said, “If you want to get ahead, help other get ahead”. I appreciate the ideas you listed! There’s been some changes in health and life that don’t really allow me to do some of the things I once did to be energized and inspired. I work on figuring other ways, other things to do to keep me active and motivated. I appreciate the effort you make in this. All the best Ernie 🙂
Denny
Hi Denny – Thank you very much for your nice reply and comment. Yes, I do have a very active life and I think that keeps me not only ahead of trouble, ha ha ha, but also busy in my pursuits to support my “why” which includes my family and my business. I love Zig Zigler! He is definitely one of my heroes and I have followed his wisdom over the years. Again, thank you for your visit and have a fantastic week ahead!