LymanI just read this on Seth Godin’s blog:
“The web is nothing but a system, a bunch of (largely unwritten) rules regarding search, linking, promotion, etc. It’s fascinating to watch as some people work hard to work the system, and succeed time and time again, while others waste countless hours with one scheme after another designed to beat the system. They invent cloaking devices and seo scams and pyramid schemes and lightly disguised spam pages, constantly struggling to stay ahead (and to stay quiet). Sure, you can beat the system (any system) for a while, but it’s a constant struggle.” (Original Article)
Food for thought… are you working it, or trying to beat it?
I’ve done both. There have been honest appraisals of products and services I’ve found useful, and then those that were done simply for the cash. And I’ve learned time and time again - doing anything strictly for the money (trying to beat the system) is nowhere near as satisfying as spreading the word about something I love and getting paid for it (working the system).
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Tags: money · Seth Godin · systems2 Comments
2 responses so far ↓
I also read Seth’s blog… I’ve also worked the system and the system has worked me. I noticed like you that I have a lot more energy to do something that’s providing value to people than I do for gaming the system. I’ve given up gaming the internet and have focused on trying to provide gobs of material other people can use to create a better life for themselves. My blog isn’t where I want it to be, but over time I think that will change just because I’m motivated to do it daily… slow paced, 5-7 articles per week that actually make a difference in someone’s life is a much more worthwhile pursuit. I’m liking your blog a lot - glad we got connected. - Vern
So true, Vern… the energy behind doing something that’s providing real value to people is not only stronger, but somehow “cleaner.”
Gobs of information… that’s sounds really cool!