Part 1: The Realities of a Wannabe Digital Nomad.

Unraveling Digital Nomadism: My Journey from Side Hustles to Location Independence

How often have you come across a video or an ad claiming you can make hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars a day from home, with no experience needed? If you’re anything like me, you’ve seen more than your fair share. For the longest time, I brushed them off, considering them nothing more than get-rich-quick schemes. But then, a video boasting about making $30,000 a month from home caught my eye. It felt too enticing to for me to ignore, leading me down the rabbit hole of “Side Hustles”.

Though I’ve learned a lot in my deep dive, I realize it’s just the tip of the iceberg. As I kept exploring, I stumbled upon the concept of “Digital Nomads”, and it got me thinking. Why not return to the countries I visited years ago while in the military? How could I make this happen? Could side hustles be the answer? What even is a digital nomad, and is it any different from having a side hustle?

I invite you to join me on my journey, where I try to unravel these mysteries. Along the way, I hope to show you a thing or two, inspire you, and perhaps even provoke you to question the norms and explore for yourself. I believe in calling out the BS when I see it, so expect nothing but raw, unfiltered insights from my experience. Let’s embark on this adventure together.

The Side Hustle Misconception: High Earnings or High Hopes?

So, what exactly is a Side Hustle? It is generally defined as additional work or a job you get paid for doing on top of your primary job—in other words, a part-time gig to earn some extra money. This, however, is far from the claims of making thousands of dollars a month I’d initially encountered. Why the discrepancy? Well, some ‘gurus’ conveniently leave out details like necessary experience or the degrees required for these jobs, while others paint a more complete, accurate picture.

Let’s delve into an example. You might have heard about earning $10-$30 an hour simply by typing. Is it true? Technically, yes. The catch, however, is that this typically refers to transcribing videos, with compensation ranging from 2-5 cents every five minutes, depending on quality and accuracy. Doing the math, that’s about 42 videos an hour on the low end (2 cents) and about 18 videos an hour on the high end (5 cents) just to scrape by. How does one reach the dreamy figure of $30 an hour, which would imply around 10 videos an hour? Well, that requires building a solid client base and establishing a strong reputation through high-quality work.

I, personally, am not the fastest typist, and the prospect of watching videos for a living doesn’t really appeal to me. There are options like YouTube’s auto-transcription, but that’s time-consuming and may not be viable if a client needs their video transcribed quickly. While there are other methods I haven’t explored yet, at this point, transcription doesn’t seem to be a viable side hustle for me.

Now let’s talk about data entry. Advertisements claim you can make $35 an hour, no experience necessary. I thought to myself, ‘I can type, and I can input data. What’s the catch?’ Upon investigating, I found that these jobs do indeed exist, but here is the rub—a degree was required. Why would I need a degree for data entry? It turns out, data entry often involves more than simply inputting information into a database. It can involve analytics and creating data models for specific purposes—skills I don’t currently possess. While there are jobs that solely involve inputting data, they certainly don’t pay $35 an hour.

The take-home message here? The side hustle market is not as straightforward as it initially appears.

A.I. Side Hustle: The Reality Behind the Dream

What is an A.I. side hustle? There isn’t a textbook definition, but in the realm of YouTube videos, it’s depicted as a savvy computer doing all the work while you merely instruct it on what to do. The perfect solution for a lazy person like me who’s in love with the idea of easy money. After all, that’s the whole point of this journey, right? To make extra cash with minimal effort.

But wait, let’s back up. ‘No experience necessary,’ they said. ‘So simple you could do it in your sleep,’ they promised. They sold me dreams of an A.I. that writes term papers, passes the bar exam, and even codes. What’s not to love? Sign me up!

However, as I soon discovered, there’s a catch. It’s not enough to merely ask the A.I. for something; you need to know how to ask correctly. In the beginning, quality YouTubers offering clear guides were as rare as hen’s teeth. Nevertheless, I experimented, improved, and my responses became better. Now, there are hundreds of YouTubers explaining how to use A.I., and their videos, combined with my trial and error, have significantly boosted my skills.

So, what about the story-writing capabilities of A.I.? ‘Whip out hundreds of stories,’ they said. Simple, right? Not quite. I’ve penned five stories I’m proud of, regardless of their initial quality. Imagine feeding 100 pages of a story you’ve labored over for years to an A.I. and having it condensed to a crisp 20 pages. Filler words and irrelevant sections, all gone. It was a harsh but necessary lesson, one that’s transformed my writing approach significantly.

What’s the connection between all this and making easy money, you ask? It’s simple: while A.I. can indeed make the process easier, it doesn’t make it entirely effortless. You need to invest time and work to reap the rewards. The promise of ‘easy money’ may have lured me into the world of A.I., but it’s the reality of hard work and consistent learning that’s keeping me here. And you know what? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Let’s continue the journey.

Small Spaces, Big Dreams: My Journey to a Functional Home Workspace

My mind was a whirlwind of thoughts, constantly churning with ideas and aspirations. Suddenly, it struck me – why not create a YouTube channel sharing my journey on making money with A.I.? After all, I began with no prior experience; surely, others might appreciate my insights and learn from my journey.

However, the idea of conducting this venture from my coffee table, lounging on my couch, and typing on a TV screen simply wouldn’t do. I live in a small apartment, and space is a premium commodity. The solution? Transforming an unused corner into a functional workspace!

With a bit of rearranging and decluttering, I found the perfect spot for a desk. I envisioned a workspace that would enhance my focus, provide comfort, and allow me to enjoy my music through headphones – something I couldn’t do from my couch due to distance.

So, I took the plunge and invested in a compact L-shaped desk and a comfortable chair. The cable management was a bit of a nightmare, but the result? A neat, stylish desk that even accommodates my gaming gear. With a cool LED light strip for that added ‘wow’ factor, the workspace finally felt complete. And the best part? It was all on sale, amounting to about $500 in total.

Having sorted out the workspace, it was time to turn my attention to the computer. While it handled a few of my favorite games adequately, I realized it wasn’t up to the mark for my upcoming A.I. ventures. Thankfully, with the new workspace ready, I had the perfect spot to house an upgraded machine.

Tech Upgrade: A Journey of Skill Acquisition

As an electrician by trade, fixing electronics comes naturally to me. I’d built just two computers at this point, and it was time for a significant upgrade. I’m not going to sugarcoat it – I splurged on my new computer rig. The impulsion? The need for a robust graphics card to run my editing software, something my previous rig just couldn’t handle.

The thought led me to an exciting idea: why not build a rig that could handle VR? This, of course, necessitated a larger case, a full-sized one to accommodate all the new components. Spotting a deal on dual monitors, I thought, ‘why not?’ and purchased them as a pair. With the addition of a quality microphone and high-grade computer speakers for an immersive gaming and music experience, the rig was shaping up nicely.
The total damage? A little under $3,000. As I tallied up the costs, I realized, to my dismay, that I’d overlooked one crucial detail: the software. I didn’t put any money aside for software. But, worst-case scenario? I’d just built a state-of-the-art gaming computer.

Assembling the hardware took only a couple of hours, but the cable management in the full-size case was far from the breeze I’d anticipated. It took hours of painstaking work, so much so that I became proficient at assembling and disassembling the rig. By the last attempt, I could do it in a matter of minutes. A recurring theme seemed to emerge – a journey of skill acquisition, learning, and fine-tuning.

Finding Resolve Amid Disappointment: My Struggle With AI

Life has a peculiar way of introducing obstacles when we least expect them. My plan was to launch a YouTube channel where I’d debunk myths about AI hustle schemes. I was eagerly honing my skills, meticulously planning my content, and researching AI side hustles.

Then came the blow – others had the same idea, and they were faster. Platforms like Etsy were awash with chat prompts similar to those I had envisioned. These weren’t the usual cheesy, generic prompts; they were sophisticated and meticulously crafted, much like my own work. AI-written books started flooding Google Play and Amazon, not even reaching my level of storytelling.

Just as I was grappling with this reality, Google Play banned AI-generated books. This was due to a program that could detect AI-written content, primarily aimed at preventing college students from using AI to cheat on term papers. Curious, I ran my own content through the program. The result: a 20% chance of being AI-generated, which was absurd as I hadn’t used AI on that work.

When I ran an AI-written short story and an AI-written e-book I’d purchased, they scored a 99% and a 90% chance, respectively. A section of my current work scored a 50%, which was puzzling. How should I proceed in the face of these obstacles?

Well, a YouTube dive led me to the revelation that using AI to improve my writing wasn’t similar to cheating. It’s more like a tool, an auto-tune for writers, aiding grammar checks, refining plot development, and maintaining the narrative tone. While workarounds existed, and my stories retained their uniqueness, I still felt unprepared to publish.

My curiosity was piqued when I stumbled upon several websites banning AI-generated content, with Google Play being the main culprit. An article, ‘Google is NOT against AI-generated content…’ published by SEO.ai in January 2023, left me flabbergasted. Just a month earlier, I’d watched three different videos discussing this very ban and potential workarounds. The initial video on the subject had been posted nine months back, and since then, several others had appeared discussing workarounds. Intriguingly, they even shared news about Google Play changing their stance on AI-generated content in January. Google Play’s motive seemed to be avoiding potential trouble. This left me questioning the validity of the other two videos I had watched.

In my attempts to make sense of this contradictory information, I fine-tuned my search, uncovering an April 2022 article: ‘Google says AI Generated Content is Against Guidelines.’ This discovery posed an interesting question – were those recent videos, barely a month old, just clickbait, exploiting a now irrelevant issue? Or, like me, had they hastily overreacted based on partial information? This ordeal taught me a valuable lesson about the critical importance of verifying content. It’s been a rollercoaster journey, indeed, but one that has honed my research skills and fostered a healthy dose of skepticism. On the bright side, I’ve acquired some handy new skills along the way!

Here’s what I learned from this experience: life presents us with a mountain to climb, filled with unexpected challenges. You can either ascend to the peak or retreat. I chose to continue the climb, only to find another mountain waiting for me at the summit. But guess what? I’m up for the challenge. I’m eager to explore e-commerce, to see what treasures lie atop this new mountain.

Outro

And there you have it, folks! My rollercoaster ride of a journey so far in this world of AI, side hustles, and digital nomad dreams. I hope you’ve enjoyed it, found it helpful, or at least got a chuckle out of my trials and tribulations. Hey, if you didn’t learn anything else, at least you’ve picked up some tips on how to navigate the wild world of AI detection and you’ve now got a solid plan for your next game of ‘Is It AI or Human?’

In my next blog, I’ll be dipping my toes into the enchanting sea of e-commerce. Oh, did I mention? It’s not as relaxing as dipping your toes into an actual sea. But worry not, dear readers, I’ll be here to share the good, the bad, and the utterly bewildering aspects of this new journey. I’m armed to the teeth with research, and I’ve got my explorer’s hat on, ready to learn hands-on. I promise it’ll be worth your while – or at the very least, you’ll get a good laugh at my expense!

So, stay tuned for the next installment of the ‘The Wannabe Digital Drifter Diaries,’ where your humble guide ventures forth into the wild unknown. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this. See you in the next blog post – unless I get lost in the e-commerce jungle, of course!

The Outro was written by only AI. Not bad…

August 1st, 2023
Part 2: Tick Tock, Cash, and Chuckles: The Real Hours of a Scratch-Start E-commerce.
The Unvarnished Truth of Being Your Own Boss
My dreams were filled with shiny gold dollar signs and visions of a budding business empire, and they still are. Perhaps it’s just my ego talking. There’s a ton I’ve learned about myself throughout this journey – chief among them being, I am constantly exhausted. This was supposed to be simple. Spoiler alert: it’s anything but. That said, it’s not entirely a grim tale. Things are starting to get a bit easier, even though I haven’t officially started any business yet. I hope that by sharing my experiences thus far, I can help you set realistic expectations for your own journey.
As a total novice, I had no experience in the ventures I was about to undertake. Consequently, I’ve been binging on instructional videos and tinkering with various AI tools. Bing’s chatbot was my initial favorite, but after some changes, it now feels more like an overhyped search engine. However, I discovered ChatGPT and it’s been my go-to ever since. I’ve tried to meld different strategies into my method. For instance, writing a blog has a dual purpose for me and sets the groundwork for a third objective. I use ChatGPT to proofread my papers – this helps me improve my command of writing prompts. Concurrently, I use WordPress to delve into analytics, a skill I’m keen on mastering. The third purpose is to launch a YouTube channel. By writing a blog, I am effectively scripting my future videos.
“Be Your Own Boss, They Said… You’ll Have All The Time In The World, They Said…”
Well, let’s just say I’m still chuckling about that one. In retrospect, it’s mostly my own fault; I was the one who deluded myself. A few hours here, a sprinkle there, and voilà! I’d have my first business raking in thousands per week. That’s the dream, right? Here’s the reality: I work a full-time job, typically clocking almost 50 hours a week spread across four days. Then there’s my business – a seven-day-a-week commitment. Spare moments at work? I’m researching, brainstorming, and blogging. This past weekend, I barely had a chance to touch my side project due to my workload. When I finally got home, I spent the precious dinner hour multitasking on my business before going to bed.
Days off, you ask? They’re dedicated to mastering the tools of my future trade. So, in terms of hours, my business is practically a second full-time job. Yes, I am aware it is funny saying that when I haven’t even opened a business yet.
One day, while grinding away at work, I had an epiphany – and no, it wasn’t of the divine sort. I grasped how people transform from zeroes to heroes, even millionaires. It boils down to dedication and perseverance. No shortcuts. I need to learn the field, sharpen my skills, and put in the time. That’s step one. Step two… Well, I haven’t gotten that far yet.
If I truly want to live the life of a digital nomad, I need to create multiple income streams. Initially, I thought it was all hype, drummed up by blowhards hunting for views. Then I feared I’d bought into the hype, tumbling down an entrepreneurial rabbit hole. But once I scrutinized several platforms, the competition was undeniable. If one income stream dries up, I will need another one. Multiple incomes is going to be the way for me to go.
And who knows? Maybe, just maybe, I’ll join the ranks of those millionaires after all.
“Diving Deep: The Importance of Research in Starting Your Own Business”
Before you take the plunge, do your homework. It’s as simple as that. Don’t get swept up in the wave of excitement without understanding what you’re getting into. It’s vital to question, research, and probe any business or investment you’re considering. Utilize all the resources at your disposal – YouTube, blogs, forums, you name it. Leave no stone unturned and don’t make the same mistake I did – assuming that some sources like blogging were dead. Trust me, they are very much alive.
After you’ve gathered all the information, it’s time for some soul-searching. Ask yourself the critical question – why are you doing this? Is it out of boredom, job dissatisfaction, or a genuine desire to try something new? This self-interrogation is key because it fuels your motivation.
For instance, I’ve been delving into my business idea, researching, and honing my skills, for five months without opening a store. As an impatient person, this is an anomaly for me. I’ve overshot my own timeline not once but twice. But I see progress in the skills I’m acquiring and find myself resisting the urge to leap in unprepared.
I want my time and money to count, to lead to success rather than wasted efforts. So, I’m taking my time to develop and learn, reminding myself to be patient. Messing up is part of the process, and I’ve made peace with that. After all, it’s the best way to learn.
Remember, in the journey of starting a business, rushing won’t get you far. But patience, research, and learning from your mistakes just might.
Investments and Returns: My Startup Capital Experience
I must admit, I didn’t intend for this to transform into a self-help post. My goal was to share some of my thoughts and experiences, especially on my startup expenses. Those who read my first blog will remember the costs I’ve incurred on my computer and my tiny workspace that I’ve fashioned out of my living space.
Would I advise someone to shell out the same amount on their computer as I did on mine? The answer is no. The reason? Well, I’m a bit of a geek who enjoys playing video games and chatting with friends online. Sadly, these activities have taken a back seat lately as my projects have commandeered my attention and time. And while my computer rig serves me well, offering comfort and fantastic sound for my music, I wouldn’t recommend it for someone starting out. A more affordable laptop will get the job done just fine.
However, investing in a dedicated home office setup is something I would recommend. It has given me the right mindset and the extra storage is a bonus. Thanks to the constant sales on Amazon and their Prime delivery, setting up your home office needn’t be a headache.
I also signed up for paid subscriptions on WordPress and Midjourney, which turned out to be necessary. While I tried to stick to free resources to keep costs low, these two required investments. The irony doesn’t escape me – I’ve never been one to worry about costs, yet here I am, doing just that. Perhaps it explains why I spent so many years living paycheck to paycheck. It’s funny how starting a business brings about changes in more ways than one!
“My Simple-yet-Complex Game Plan
My game plan seems simple at a glance: open a WordPress account to blog, get on Midjourney to create images, decide on a mockup website, and then launch a store on Etsy. But, as I’ve come to learn, there’s nothing simple about this journey. It’s not about intelligence, it’s about gaining experience while navigating unfamiliar territory. And, for a moment, I’ve begun to question the wisdom of those YouTubers (just kidding… mostly).
WordPress
I opted for WordPress for a few reasons. Its free blog hosting feature, though lacking full access to all tools without a paid domain, was a big draw. Plus, every catchy name I came up with seemed to already exist elsewhere. I’ve concluded that truly original ideas are an endangered species! However, on WordPress, after some digging, I managed to secure a domain I liked, although I had to pay for it. But score! I got a two-for-one deal, securing two years of domain hosting for the price of one – a cool hundred bucks.
Despite its initially intimidating interface, WordPress is surprisingly one of the easiest sites I’ve had to learn. It’s user-friendly, and its advanced controls are intuitive. It turns out that the domain I purchased was someone else’s (inactive for three months). After cleaning the slate, I posted my blog, utilizing tags, keywords, and SEO-friendly phrases that I learned from various tutorials (a shout-out to note-taking!). While WordPress does offer instructional videos, be warned, they are sleep-inducing, despite their attempts at fun. On a high note, my initial strategy seems to be working as my first post saw a hundred views in less than a day. Key takeaway: mastering traffic-driving skills is vital. Now if only I could figure out how to edit the “ABOUT” section. Baby steps, I guess.
Midjourney
Midjourney, where should I start? Let’s just say, it’s not my favorite. It doesn’t offer a trial subscription, so I’m shelling out $8 a month just to learn the ropes. My early experiences were challenging, but as I improved my commands, the results improved. However, it froze when I asked for a “scary picture of the Men In Black” – an issue I never had with other platforms. Still, I’m getting the hang of it, even managing to request complex images with somewhat successful outcomes. Although there are other AI-generated graphic programs available, most are not yet commercialized, and the ones that are… well, they pale in comparison to Midjourney.
Choosing Mockup Programs – An Unsolved Mystery
Every time friends, all two of them, or my girlfriend, bring up mockup programs, I change the subject faster than you can say “Look! Aliens!” Even when I question myself, I don’t have a solid answer. Yes, it’s somewhat sad. The truth is, I’ve only examined four or five of these programs, and have watched a handful of tutorials. I’ve shortlisted three, each with their unique application relevant to the products I plan to sell. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, and Adobe Pro, necessary for these mockups, also factors in. As the world of e-commerce moves quickly, I need to stay updated and make the right decision – especially since I’ll be selling commercially.
Etsy
As for Etsy, I’m nowhere near ready. I lack mockups but have some sale strategies in mind. There are a few more things that I have to learn. Interestingly, Etsy harbors its own dark side. I’ve seen videos and read blogs, where sellers recount being kicked off the platform, their stores closed without explanation. There are also a few who made their copies a little too similar to someone’s else’s product and got banned. In some stories there are a few that went straight up pirate, sellers claim their products were copied, and they were accused of infringement. So there a few sellers that do not care. While I am aware of the cutthroat nature of platforms like Etsy, these stories still shock me. Therefore, the golden rule reverberates don’t copy others’ mockups, ideas, or descriptions. I don’t know if any of these stories are true, but I am going to use a cautious approach. My cautious approach is why I plan to purchase mockups and utilize Midjourney for commercial selling. One key aspect that I am studying is the use of watermarks for product protection. And even when I own the rights, I’ll add an extra layer of protection with watermarks, which in creating seems simple enough, but I am wiser and know better. However, it’s crucial not to get ahead of myself, and to learn the basics first.
Wrapping Up – Patience is Paying Off
After a tireless five-month journey, my efforts are starting to bear fruit. The recent month, although physically draining, has been bountiful in terms of skills and knowledge acquisition. The once-daunting WordPress now feels like familiar terrain, and Midjourney, despite its early challenges, has evolved into a trusted ally in my quest. Delving into an array of mockup programs has expanded my perspective on product presentation possibilities.
On the cusp of entering the big leagues, I estimate my arrival could be as early as two weeks, but a month seems more realistic. As I stand on this exciting precipice, I’m grateful for your company on this exhilarating journey. Thank you for listening to my weekly recap and stay tuned for more updates on this voyage to success.

August 20th 2023

Ever tried navigating the labyrinth that is WordPress or crafting the perfect AI image? Here’s my own winding journey.
It’s been a while since I’ve been able to write a blog post. I ended up covering another shift, plus my own, leaving me busy and exhausted for 7 straight days. Normally, this would be a prime opportunity to write, but not this time. On my 5 days off, I dived into different platforms to practice creating mockups, ultimately settling on one for its user-friendliness. I also experimented with various AI image generators, with Leonardo emerging as my favorite — but more on that later. To top it off, I also unearthed a mistake I made with WordPress.
WordPress
Navigating WordPress proved more challenging than anticipated. My initial misconception was that I was buying someone else’s domain when, in fact, I was dealing with a stock template. The learning curve continues. To improve my visibility, I obtained a Google certificate — free and conveniently located under WordPress’s ‘Traffic’ tab — that purportedly elevates my site in search results. Yet the reality didn’t meet my expectations; specific keywords are needed for users to find my blog. Despite leveraging free SEO tools and YouTube tutorials, the traffic boost to my blog has been modest at best. It seems further research on driving website traffic is in order, a task I’m setting my sights on this coming weekend.
Midjourney
Midjourney, to say the least, has been a frustrating experience. Although brimming with videos and guides, the help section required diligent study. The tools are comprehensive, and mastering them enables Midjourney to produce genuinely striking artwork. However, language proved a stumbling block — commands in plain English don’t always yield the expected results, as evidenced by my quest for a simple black-and-white image. Crafting a perfect prompt for a coloring book page was an ordeal, yielding meager results. For instance, my prompt for an ‘Aswang’ (a mythical creature) unexpectedly produced a colorful floral image. Despite these hiccups, Midjourney has its merits, such as rapid artwork generation and a thriving, helpful community.
Tips for Using Midjourney:

• 1st tip: Avoid prototyping on the free and the 1st pay level account. I noticed that when I was prototyping, others began to mimic my work. Use the free account to learn Midjourney’s ropes and to decide if it’s right for you.
• 2nd tip: Make reading the instructions a priority. They are straightforward and enlightening.
• 3rd tip: Hone your phrasing skills for crafting prompts. Plenty of videos can guide you, and practice makes perfect — or at least closer to what you’re aiming for.
  Leonardo AI
  In the bustling world of AI image generators, Leonardo AI is my top pick, hands down. It’s user-friendly and gets you going with minimal fuss—no need to drown in manuals or spend hours on tutorials. The program is incredibly intuitive. Most of the instructional videos focus on crafting effective prompts; the sharper my prompts, the more accurate Leonardo became. Plus, it’s website-specific, which adds a tailored touch that I appreciate. There’s a buffet of styles to choose from, each with its own set of tuned presets. Stumped on how to draft a solid prompt? No problem—there’s a handy prompt generator ready to help. Just describe what you envision, and voila, it crafts a list of prompts for you. I can pick the one that seems most promising or, as I did just for kicks, try them all. If none hit the mark, it’s easy to mix and match elements from different prompts to whip up a whole new creation. My favorite feature? The simplicity of using negative prompts, instructing the AI on what to avoid (like “no red” or “no background”). It’s a breeze compared to other image generators I’ve tinkered with. And when I crave a specific style, Leonardo lets me go full-on custom from the toolbar. No arcane commands required—just straightforward point and click, and the world (or at least the image) is your oyster.
  Tips for Using Leonardo AI:
  •1st Tip: Master the art of crafting prompts. Study other people’s prompts to spark your own ideas. Remember: details are your friend. The more specific your prompt, the closer you’ll get to conjuring the image you’ve envisioned.
  •2nd Tip: Get comfortable with negative prompts. It’s a game-changer and a genuine time-saver.
  •3rd Tip: Spotted a style you adore from the community? Snag the “seed.” This magic trick adjusts your presets to match theirs. All that’s left for you to do? Craft your perfect prompt.
  Plugins with ChatGPT
  I stumbled upon a video advertising a plugin that claimed to be so user-friendly that anyone could master it. You can even check out the website if you don’t have ChatGpt. It promised to write blogs and newsletters in 5 minutes or less, with no experience necessary. Yeah, yeah, yeah… I’ve been down this winding road for months, and I’m calling BS on this! The plugin was dubbed “Quick Blog.” Just plug in the URL of the blog that you want to generate, and voila! A shiny new blog post, ready for sale. Sounds too good to be true, right?
  I put it to the test with ChatGPT. Considering that you can’t plagiarize yourself, I input my own blog URL. Just 5 minutes later, a revamped blog post was ready. And, to my surprise, it was good. Very good. What the hell, Bobby? It refined examples I’d used and threw in fresh ones I hadn’t even thought of. This was gold—or so it seemed. I tried a few other URLs, and they emerged as well-crafted pieces. But here comes the curveball… My conversations have been wiped from ChatGPT, and the plugin isn’t performing its old tricks anymore. I’m stumped as to why. Sure, you can still toss a topic into it, but it’s just not hitting the mark like before. A damn shame, really, because that looked like easy money.
  But then, I hit the brakes and took a long, hard look at the ethics of it all. Was this ‘easy money’ really a fair game, or was it skirting dangerously close to hijacking someone else’s sweat and toil? This tool, while damn convenient, appeared to be recycling content from other sources—no consent, no credit. In a realm where content is crowned king and creators pour their soul into their craft, this strategy just didn’t vibe with me. Efficiency? Big yes. But I’m also in the camp of originality and credit where it’s due. I’d raise hell if someone snatched my work for a profit without my say-so; using a tool that could be doing just that felt downright wrong. Okay, Universe, I get the memo—no shortcuts.
  Now, I did catch wind of a move where websites are bolstering defenses against such tools. Heavy hitters like the New York Times are pulling up the drawbridge, refusing to let their website be indexed to prevent this kind of plunder. Seems fair when you look at it that way. But hey, seeing my blog grace the glossy pages of a magazine, especially looking all spiffed up and professional—that’s a dream I’m not quite ready to let go of.
  “Craft Prompts”
  The name “Craft Prompts” always struck me as a bit silly. I mean, isn’t that exactly what we’re doing? Crafting a prompt to get a certain output from ChatGPT? Though I’m no expert in this field, I like to think I have a pretty solid grasp on things. Apparently not. Craft Prompts are designed for specific, intricate tasks, and the outputs are impressively detailed. Essentially, I need to craft an ultra-specific prompt tailored to a unique idea in ChatGPT. Gone are the days of clicking on the three dots, navigating to the settings & beta tab, and then clicking on a flag to bring it up—now it’s so popular, it has its own dedicated tab.
  Here’s the deal: it’s like a regular prompt but supercharged. You assign it a persona, specify a level of experience (just like normal prompting), set the level of education, and even indicate years of experience in a job role. The output? It’s all about you and how you want your information. I’m skipping over a lot of the details here—no need to yawn through the minutiae. After inputting all of this, you pop in your prompt. The output is nothing short of spectacular—and lengthy. For instance, say you’re itching to start another business. You feed “Craft Prompt” your information and then ask ChatGPT how to kick things off. Since you’ve already indicated the type of business, it’ll already be in the know. Expect a full breakdown, risks included, with advice on dodging them. I’ve got just a few scenarios where this would be my go-to. Full disclosure? Spending hours crafting a “Craft Prompt” just isn’t my cup of tea. But hey, maybe further down the line, I’ll use “Craft Prompt” for whipping up an advertising strategy or something similar.
  Paid Advertising. Is it Worth it?
  I’m scratching my head over this: is it really “paid advertising”? That’s what WordPress calls it, anyway. What I actually did was shell out $20 to have traffic directed to my site (not a bad deal, right?). The catch? There’s no guarantee that people will buy, watch, or even read a single line. Good thing I have nothing to sell or watch. But they do promise that at least 1,000 people will swing by my site in 7 days. I got to pick my platforms—Google, Facebook—and set my target demographics.
  Have I checked to see if that promise holds? Not yet. The past two weeks have been a whirlwind, and honestly, I’m not quite ready to face the numbers. My blog is very much a work in progress. It’s lacking in pictures, partly because I’m still figuring out how to take a simple screenshot on my computer. And design details? I have big dreams, but little clue on how to make them reality. I could fork over $5,000 for a professional to build my blog, but even just thinking about that price tag gives me the shivers. Plus, building it myself? That’s half the fun.
  So, here’s the million-dollar question: was the $20 worth it? In my book, no. I jumped the gun. My friends have been kind, praising my writing and the personal touches. But the chorus is the same: my blog needs more of me. More photos of my experiments, more glimpses into my world. That’s fair. What really stung, though, were the comments about my blog being disorganized and, well, beige. That wasn’t what I was fishing for when I asked them to read my blog, but I can’t ignore their point. What good is driving traffic to a blog that’s not ready for the spotlight? What will make them stay and engage with what I wrote?
  I’m not hitting the brakes or shifting gears just yet. There’s still so much more I want to learn.
  Opening a Store on Etsy. Finally?
  I had my sights set on launching my first store by the 1st of September. Already behind schedule, and I already pushed it back a couple of times, pushing back to this date seemed reasonable at first. But diving into the world of digital products, I quickly realized that nothing goes as planned. At first glance, anyone might have thought I was stalling—and initially, I might have agreed. But now? I see it differently. Why? Time is the simple answer. No one, myself included, fully appreciates that starting a side business is essentially signing up for a second job. I squeeze in time for it when I can, while trying to have a life and maintain a relationship with my girlfriend. I am lucky she is very understanding, supportive and patient with me.
  As I wrap up my initial learning phase and brace myself for some On-The-Job Training, new issues are cropping up that need attention.
  Mockups for starters. This was, to my surprise, one of the easiest things to master. Many YouTubers recommend Kittl for beginners looking to create mockups, and they were right—it was a breeze. The playful freedom I found in crafting my creations was exhilarating. The downside? A slew of enticing features that were locked behind the paid version, which I shrugged off, initially. That was until I needed specific sizes available only in the paid version. Then there’s Kittl’s AI image generator—what a rollercoaster. One minute, it’s a neat addition; the next, I’m being flagged left and right for ‘inappropriate content.’ Magical fire? Seriously? And the inexplicable user agreement violations were head-scratchers. Clearly, Kittl’s AI needs a tune-up. On a brighter note, I’ve also learned to use upscalers for the artwork—thankfully, those are easy to find online, and free.
  Next on the list? Legal and financial prep. I need to secure a business license and open a business bank account. It feels excessive given my location, but Uncle Sam needs his slice of the pie, right? I understand the wisdom behind separating personal and business finances—seems like every seasoned store owner is singing this tune. It’s making me consider consulting a lawyer about setting up an LLC to protect my personal assets.
  But slowly, surely, everything is falling into place. It’s just taking a tad longer than I’d hoped for.
  My Final Thoughts
  I have to be honest here; my attention span isn’t exactly Olympic. I was almost ready to throw in the towel less than two months into this journey. But look at me now, six months later. Why did I stick it out? Because I want to make money.
  In hindsight, dismissing some things as nonsense may have been a bit premature. Sure, not everyone can hit the ground running, but with a little time and effort, the picture starts to change. After all I’ve learned, I’ve gotten to a point where I can complete tasks in just 5 minutes, tasks that initially seemed baffling. I revisited some of those things I initially scoffed at, and guess what? My skill level was the real issue, not the advice. Now, I actually can follow along with those YouTube tutorials in five minutes flat.
  So, this raises a question: Who exactly are those YouTubers speaking to? Is their advice more digestible now because I’ve gained experience? It’s a possibility.
  Here’s another nugget of wisdom I’ve gleaned: we’re in the midst of a fast-paced AI revolution, and information becomes outdated quickly. So, staying adaptable is key, and letting frustration get the best of you? That’s a no-go.
  My best advice? Be patient and keep pushing forward. Take breaks when you need them; there’s no award for burning out. Remember, learning something new is always a marathon, not a sprint.

September 1st 2023

Introduction
Hey everyone! I hope you’ve had an excellent week. It feels like it’s been ages since I last penned my thoughts. The past few weeks have felt like a never-ending loop, filled with both personal and business challenges that I’ve been navigating. Honestly, I’m not even sure where to begin.
I’ve crafted some unique coloring books that cater to both adults and kids. They’re filled with fun and engaging designs that I haven’t seen elsewhere on the market. Here’s to hoping they catch on! I’m aware that a lot hinges on the reviews I’ll get. One negative feedback can make quite an impact, but I’ll delve into that later.
As for my work with Midjourney and Leonardo prompts, I’m seeing significant improvement… at least in my eyes! I find value in using both platforms, each having its strengths and weaknesses. Surprisingly, I’ve been leaning towards both for different tasks. This was unexpected, especially since I’ve always been more biased towards Leonardo. Yet, the intricacies of inputting in Midjourney are growing on me.
On the bright side, during this waiting period, I’ve managed to acquire a new skill or two. For instance, I’ve discovered a way to churn out 100 design variations in mere hours rather than days. Can’t wait to dive deeper and optimize this newfound technique!

When Will the “Easy” Part Begin?
The whole “It’s so easy” mantra about side hustles? I stopped buying into that a while ago. Now, don’t get me wrong – things have become simpler over time. But I sometimes forget the real essence of a “side hustle”. It translates to work. If I want to earn, I’ve got to put in the effort. When you break it down, “side hustle” is just a euphemistic term for extra work. Yet, if it were commonly termed as “another job”, who’d be eager to jump on board? I still hold onto the hope of a day when just an hour’s work can fetch me good money.
Recently, I’ve been exploring strategies and delving into marketing nuances to ensure I’m on the right track. And yes, I’ve found myself spiraling down some unexpected rabbit holes. I’ve mentioned in my previous blog about stores facing bans or suspensions for various reasons. One surprising cause? Bad reviews. The antidote seems simple: ensure quality by ordering a sample before committing to a print-on-demand service. You’d think it’s common sense, but many sellers overlook this step. But here’s the twist: some diligent store owners do order samples and still face issues. As it turns out, some companies maintain machines exclusively for printing these samples, ensuring they’re in pristine condition. It’s a clever tactic to attract business. So how does one distinguish the genuine from the deceitful? The answer: extensive research. I delve into reviews everywhere – from Google and Bing to the Better Business Bureau and even Yelp. And then, it’s deciphering the genuine product reviews from the fabricated ones. Yes, it’s a heap of additional work.
Ah, the irony of “it’s so easy.”
Let me simplify with some tips:

1. Apparel Tips: When considering apparel, scour reviews about the print quality from other store owners. Utilize every research method available.
2. Color and Size Choices: Steer clear from too-unique colors and sizes. They might promise high rewards, but they also come with high risks. If you decide to take that route, ensure backup with other print-on-demand services in case your primary one falls short.
3. Customer Relations: Stay proactive with your customers. At times, taking a slight financial hit, like offering a full refund, can save you from the long-term damage of a bad review.

The Maze of Starting a Business
During one of my trips down the proverbial rabbit hole, I encountered a term called “hobby pay.” The IRS more commonly refers to it as “hobby income” and defines it as any activity someone undertakes for enjoyment without the intent to profit. Amusingly, my quest to understand “hobby pay” led me straight to the top of the IRS website. My amusement dwindled as I read further: all income, including from hobbies, must be reported to the IRS.
Things took a murkier turn when I discovered a story about an individual convicted of tax evasion and embezzlement from his company. Curiously, he seemed to be embezzling from himself. He was reinvesting his profits back into his company, and there were no shareholders to deceive. The plot thickened when I found out he hadn’t been paying taxes into Social Security or Medicare. Suddenly, the seemingly harmless definition of “hobby pay” felt ominously real.
This revelation steers me to an essential decision: it might be time to hire an accountant. While I’m in the early stages of setting up a home business and incurring minor expenses, it might be wise to ensure every dime and inch of space is accounted for, and possibly tax-deductible. I don’t want any missteps that could land me in legal trouble, much like our aforementioned businessman. To legitimize things further, a business permit/license might be necessary.
Considering all these legal intricacies, consulting a lawyer doesn’t seem far-fetched. They could assist with business permits and even the establishment of an LLC. Given their expertise doesn’t come cheap, I might as well dive deeper: can they help procure ISBNs or scout for business grants tailored for ventures like mine? A cursory search revealed grants largely earmarked for research, environmental initiatives, and curiously, Nepalese women (I’m still perplexed about that one). A grant to buffer startup expenses would be a godsend.
A business checking account seems like a sensible next step. Many YouTubers recommend it for several reasons:

1. Refunds: It ensures ready funds for refunds, eliminating the stress of waiting till the next payday.
2. Tax Filing: It streamlines tax processes by separating personal and business transactions.
3. Budgeting and Spending: A clear demarcation prevents any accidental expenditure that might interfere with personal plans, be it treating oneself or buying gifts.
   The “it’s so easy” part of starting a business? Still elusive. Maybe I’m overthinking it. But I’m driven by the desire not just to earn money but to retain it. Here’s hoping that the groundwork I’m laying now will make the future journey smoother.

Dishing Out Cash for the Almighty Computer… Again.
I had this brilliant idea: the Etsy Challenge. (Catchy, right?) The goal? Launch my shop (which was in the plans anyway) and hustle my way to $10,000 by year’s end. Considering it’s still August, I might be onto something. Heck, I’d throw a little victory dance for just one sale. But wait, there’s a plot twist: 25 designs and 25 variations for each? Quick math: that’s a whopping 625 designs. Reality check: August’s almost done. Even if I downsize my ambitions to a mere 100 designs, considering what I already have, it’s a daunting task.
Enter my genius solution: a software that takes my mockups, sprinkles some digital magic, and voila! New variations in a few hours. Lucky for me, I’ve danced with a few mockup generators before. Now, to beef up my tech arsenal, it’s time for the Adobe suite. My trusty computer’s all ready to roll, but oh, wait. Hold the applause. My video card just waved the white flag.
Remember the simpler times when everything was all about the CPU and RAM? When did video cards become the divas of the tech world? Sure, I could get a decent one without burning a hole in my pocket, but future-me is eyeing AI-driven software for videos. So, why not invest in a card that backs AI now? Hence, I shelled out $1,300 for a card that promises not to make me upgrade anytime soon. But, plot twist number two: a new power supply’s in order, setting me back another $200.
Do the math. $1,500 and another subscription? Someone once said, “You gotta spend money to make money.” Clearly, they were either rolling in dough or had a rich sense of humor.

Eureka! I’ve Found My Niche
Once upon a time, I believed a niche was solely about the design I intended to sell. Those artsy bits, my unique ideas, and those visionary outputs birthed with a little help from AI generators. And every time a YouTuber went, “Sell this or that,” I’d roll my eyes because, hey, it wasn’t “my niche.” Instead, I focused on their teachings about mockups or crafting insights.
But plot twist! Two YouTubers I admire put out videos with titles diving into the true essence of a ‘niche’. Out of pure serendipity, I clicked on the ‘wrong’ video. And there it was, the definition of a niche: a specialized segment of the market for a particular kind of product or service. Yup, straight from Webster’s Dictionary. Talk about going official!
But let’s decode this. A niche, as I’ve come to understand, has two layers: my designs (the aesthetic realm) and the product (the tangible realm). Simply put, the product is what gets the cash registers ringing. It’s all good and well to have a hip-hop rendition of Casper the Friendly Ghost looking ultra-cool on a keychain, but if no one’s buying keychains, then what’s the point? It’s about aligning creativity with market demand. And that fusion? That’s your niche.
To add a pinch of complexity, the ideal niche is something with high demand and low competition. That’s where the golden goose lies.
Fast forward some intensive planning (read: endless hours of research), I’ve zeroed in on my niche: coloring books. Both for adults and kids. But wait, there’s more! I’m also testing these designs on tumblers. The market seems ripe for my offerings, and competition? Surprisingly low. So, am I on the brink of a gold rush? Maybe not. But this venture promises invaluable hands-on experience, far beyond textbook knowledge. Knowing the intricacies of SEO and the right keywords doesn’t always seal the deal, but it’s a start.

The Ups and Downs of Staying Motivated
Let’s chat for a moment about motivation and the resilience to see things through. I’ve had to shift my launch date yet again. To say it’s frustrating would be an understatement. The perpetual wait for parts, the race to stay updated on the latest techniques and trends; it’s exhausting. I was well-aware of the looming learning curve and yet, I took the deep dive. I anticipated hard work, but didn’t foresee the sheer magnitude of it. Now, with the benefit of hindsight (which, by the way, always has a nifty zoom feature), I see things more clearly.
Here’s my two cents: You don’t have to walk in my footsteps. Begin small. Use free resources and software. It’s unwise to pour money into something that hasn’t started bearing fruit.
Why this candid chat? I’ve experienced my share of setbacks, both personal and project-related, and they’ve dented my finances. There were moments I was on the brink of quitting. Thankfully, my job offers a cushion with its decent pay and flexible overtime. Not everyone might have that safety net.
Managing this blog has been another adventure. Initially, I grappled with topics. But once I sat down, words just flowed. Whether it’s recounting my successes and failures or some mysterious force that takes over my fingers, I find plenty to write about. A little secret: I rely on ChatGPT to fine-tune my blogs. A few revisions later, I infuse my distinct voice and tone. This way, my blogging remains efficient and authentic.
The essence of this discourse? Save where you can. Make the most of free or inexpensive resources. While my journey might have cost a bit more, you can kickstart yours on a $20-$30 monthly budget. Of course, this will vary once you’re operational with store and manufacturing fees. And remember, unlike my ‘all-in’ approach, you can pace yourself. Frequent breaks can do wonders.
Keep that fire of motivation burning. Strive for a work-life balance. Life’s a marathon, not a sprint.

October 8th 2023

What the Hell Happened?

As I sit here, a myriad of thoughts barrages my mind. It’s peculiar how much can transpire over a few months, and yet, how simultaneously static those months can feel. I’ve grappled with various outlines, only to discard them. They either felt out of place, overly dramatic, or simply unengaging. This draft may veer into the dramatic, but I’ll see it through. Maybe the written narrative will prove more coherent than a mere outline.

Ironically, this introspection was sparked by a film I recently watched. As the credits rolled, I found myself grappling with the age-old debate of Chance vs. Fate. Where does Free Will factor in? I sought my girlfriend’s perspective, who staunchly champions the idea of Fate over Chance. To jest, I quipped, “If everything’s preordained, does Free Will merely dictate our choice of toothpaste brands?” — a line inspired by that movie. Without missing a beat, she cheekily advised, “If you do get toothpaste, make sure it’s a ‘buy 1, get 1 free’ deal.” Her refreshingly simplistic view of the world never ceases to amuse me. I’ll leave you, dear readers, to infer your own conclusions from this.

The above might seem tangential, but it ties into a more pressing concern. In February, I was informed of an outstanding debt amounting to $7,000, spanning over six months. Determinedly, I cleared it in merely two. Imagine my shock when post-clearance, I was informed of an “oversight”—the actual amount owed was $67,000. The company began docking $1,000 from my bi-weekly paychecks. Eight months in, I’ve managed to reduce it by $16,000, but at the expense of my savings. Despite the financial drain, the company’s unilateral deductions, they claim, were within legal bounds while they awaited my financial documentation. In the midst of seeking legal counsel, I found the funds drying up. Desperate, I informed them of my impending financial collapse. Their apathy was palpable. But when I mentioned the potential loss of my job, they miraculously revised their deduction. Though still sizeable, it allows me to breathe, pay my bills, and re-initiate my search for an attorney. This ordeal has me reconsidering many of my ambitions.

Dreams and Reality

Lately, my thoughts often meander between dreams and reality. Many of us yearn for the American Dream, yet at times, I wonder if it’s merely an illusion. But then I counter that notion, considering perhaps it’s just a comforting lie some tell themselves when faced with relentless challenges.

I’ve poured a significant amount of money into my aspirations. A running jest I have is that even if things don’t pan out, I’d at least have an impressive computer for gaming. Truthfully, games do run spectacularly on it. But then, why splurge on a high-end PC when game consoles can deliver nearly similar experiences? The crux here is that I designed that machine for diverse functions, not just leisure gaming, and I feel I’m not tapping into its full potential.

My ultimate goal? To be my own boss, working on my terms. Admittedly, I’ve taken a hiatus from this endeavor and haven’t seen financial returns. The hard-hitting reality emerges when unforeseen challenges jolt me out of my trajectory. It’s not always about fatigue from my job, though there were weeks I clocked 70+ hours just to stay afloat. Historically, when tossed into turbulent waters, I’ve emerged stronger. This time, however, that vigor seems elusive. My drive for side projects has dwindled, and even the lure of YouTube for inspiration has waned.

Now, with my finances somewhat stabilized and most bills squared away, I find the spark of creativity rekindling. Yet, distractions arise. A new video game kept me engrossed for over 40 hours. Was it a needed escape or just another deviation?

What’s clear is that dreams often deviate from reality. I’ve got a journey ahead and remain uncertain about the direction of my side hustles. But I’m not bowing out just yet. Now that I’m temporarily flush with cash, I’ve allowed myself a full weekend off, though overtime awaits next week. In layman’s terms? I can splurge a bit on meals beyond canned food or plain ramen. Apologies for the absence of a motivational spiel at the end here.

Facing Reality Head-On

To be candid, I’ve recently been jolted by the harsh blows of reality. In times of financial distress, I’ve leaned on a tried-and-true solution: overtime. Being an electrician, there’s almost always extra work for those willing. While this is my avenue for quick cash, everyone has their own hustle, and it’s crucial to exploit it. Before my current opportunities, I had my own set of hustles: donating plasma, signing up with a “Work Today-Pay Today” agency, diving into the fiercely competitive world of scrapping, and even working at food banks for meals. Sadly, many of these options are exclusive to those in urban areas. I hope my story resonates and perhaps even guides someone.

I can’t deny it; consistent hustle often leaves me mentally drained, stifling my creative urges. But I’ve found solace in changing gears. I penned a few conspiracy theories just for fun. It’s a refreshing shift, reminding me that switching tasks can alleviate stress and refresh the mind. While these theories won’t grace my blog, I’m toying with the idea of sharing them on a YouTube channel. My hope? They elicit a chuckle or two.

Video games have been another refuge. Contrary to some beliefs that they dull the mind, I’ve found them therapeutic. They offer problem-solving challenges, thrilling adventures, and captivating narratives—all excellent distractions from the grind. Plus, they’re a harmless outlet for any pent-up frustration; much better than alternatives that might land you in handcuffs.

These outlets have been my bulwark against sinking into despair. My advice? Find your sanctuary in activities you adore, and when ready, reset and start afresh. But a word of caution: never let these pastimes become a crutch. They should be rejuvenating, not a hindrance. Seek activities that rekindle your motivation.

Picking Up the Pieces After Two Months

I’ve been out of sorts for some time now; that’s undeniable. With a slightly steadier footing now, it’s time to evaluate the viability of my ongoing projects, the funds at my disposal, and the best way forward. The equation is simple: more hours worked equals more money earned. Yet, the more I work, the less motivation I have to dive into the projects that bring me closer to my dream of living abroad. The pressing question: am I just deferring tasks, or am I merely finding excuses? The truth is, while these projects grant me invaluable experience, they don’t yield the financial growth or sustainability I need. That’s a tough realization. During my recent weekend off, did I tap into these projects? To some extent, yes. I penned two blog posts; one awaits publishing, and this one is a work in progress.

There’s no doubt about my enthusiasm. I’m eager to re-immerse myself in learning innovative AI applications for side hustles, stay updated with Print On Demand (POD) trends, engage in debates over POD versus Drop Shipping, and keep tabs on the latest lawsuits surrounding digital artwork copyright infringements. The old lottery slogan, “You’ve got to play to WIN!”, constantly echoes in my mind. The harsh reality? I’m just one paycheck away from breaking free from this holding pattern. It’s frustrating. Until I can chart a clearer path, my focus will return to the current waves in POD. On a brighter note, after a quick scan, it seems none of my original ideas haven’t been replicated yet.

Wrapping Up This Week’s Brief Blog

I recognize that this blog may seem repetitive, circling back to familiar points. My intention was to illustrate that, despite considering numerous options, I often land on the same roadblock: finances. So, what’s the next step? Frankly, I’m still piecing that together. My immediate tasks involve revisiting my product creation skills on image generators (thankfully, I’ve kept notes) and mastering image editing tools for product placement. When it comes to setting a commencement date, I can’t help but chuckle. Every time I’ve set one, it invariably gets postponed. Initial delays were about gaining necessary skills or acquiring specific tools. Later, I realized some upgrades might not have been essential, and now the obstacle is undeniably financial.

My new strategy? Abandon over-planning and embrace spontaneity. While seemingly whimsical, it pushes me to hustle and adapt on the fly. Admittedly, it’s a risky move, perhaps even one of my riskiest. But to echo a film quote, “Sometimes you have to say ‘screw it’ and see what happens.” I don’t believe this decision stems from desperation but rather from impatience, which can be just as perilous. Yet, as the old saying goes, “You’ve got to play to WIN!”