Am I Doing This All Wrong?

Am I Doing This All Wrong?

by | Jun 6, 2025 | Online Business & Mindset

Some days, my website feels like a quiet little space I’m tending with care. Other days? It feels like a 400-room house with the windows open, half the furniture missing, spiders in every crevice and an unexpected goat in the kitchen.

This week I found myself knee-deep in Google Drive folders, rewriting posts I wrote two years ago, creating new featured images, checking SEO settings, trying to remember what RankMath even wanted from me — and wondering, Am I doing this all wrong?

Lady thinking 'am i doing this all wrong'

If you’re building a website for the first time — especially in midlife or beyond — and finding yourself tangled up in plugins, image sizes, or too many tabs open at once, let me say this clearly:

You are not doing it wrong. You are doing it thoughtfully.

And that kind of building takes a little more time.

The Overload Is Real

When we set out to build something steady and lovingly online, we’re often met with more complexity than we expected.

Maybe you’re feeling this too:

  • You’ve published dozens of blog posts, but now your fonts, headings, and images don’t match
  • You’re learning SEO terms, trying not to glaze over every time you hear “meta description”
  • You want your homepage to feel inviting, but can’t even remember which plugin controls the header
  • You have folders of half-finished freebies, course ideas, or Canva designs — and no idea where to begin

The result? That creeping sense that everyone else has figured this out and you’re still pushing buttons hoping they do what they say they will.

Am I Doing This All Wrong?

Let me reassure you: This phase is normal. In fact, it’s often the quiet middle part of a bigger shift. You’re not floundering — you’re growing.

And while the internet is full of bold promises and fast-talking tutorials, most people don’t talk about this part — the part where learning feels slow, messy, and not very photogenic. This is the work that happens behind the scenes, when no one is clapping. This is where your foundation is being shaped.

We tend to underestimate how much mental energy it takes to juggle multiple learning curves at once — design, writing, SEO, structure — especially when tech isn’t your native language.

But it’s not about knowing everything; it’s about giving yourself room to learn in the open.

That’s courage, not weakness.

What I’m Doing Now (In Case It Helps)

The last couple of weeks I seem to have been constantly asking myself “Am I doing this all wrong?”

As a child I had a teacher who said ‘Jacqueline is her own worst enemy’.  He was soooo right.  Taking a step back and concentrating on things on my website that matter to me (not necessarily to anyone else!) is important 

So I came to a decision; rather than trying to clean up every corner of my site at once to please the masses, I’m taking a slower, more structured approach. This week, my focus looks like this:

  • Refresh 10 older posts with updated featured images, improved clarity, and gentle SEO tweaks
  • Reorganise my Google Drive so I can actually find things again
  • Stick to my existing publishing rhythm (one new post, already drafted)
  • Leave the rest — videos, courses, tweaks — until I’ve made this part feel steady

This isn’t about giving up on the big picture — it’s about building the base strong enough to hold it.  

A Gentle Reminder (Just For You)

If your website has started to feel like a to-do list instead of a creative space, please know this:

  • You don’t have to do everything right now.
  • You don’t have to do it perfectly the first time.
  • And you are absolutely not too late or too lost.

Every time you edit a post, update an image, or simply open your site with intention — you’re moving forward.

If today all you manage is to fix one heading or name one folder, that is still progress.

Lady working out if she is doing this all wrong

And Finally...

You are not doing this all wrong. You are doing it with care. And in this space, that matters more than anything.

You are allowed to build slowly. You are allowed to rest. And you are allowed to find joy in the small moments — like when a heading finally aligns, or your homepage starts to feel like somewhere you’d want to visit.

Trust that the clarity will come, not all at once, but gradually — and that your readers don’t need perfect. They need you. Showing up, trying, refining. That’s what builds trust. That’s what builds something real. 

If you’d like to read more about the subject of ‘overwhelm’, here is another post that might help: Why successful creators are putting limits on themselves

I’d love to hear from you — truly.

Have you ever asked yourself, “Am I doing this all wrong?”

What part of the website-building process has surprised you, slowed you down, or maybe even made you proud?

Leave a comment below and share your thoughts. You’re not alone in this — and your voice might be the very encouragement someone else needs today.

The Benefits of Aging

The Benefits of Aging

by | May 26, 2025 | Online Business & Mindset

Age is one of those numbers people often panic over, but in reality, it holds a quiet kind of power. There’s this tired myth that aging is all about decline — but let’s flip the script. The benefits of aging are real, rich, and often overlooked. Think of age as a collection of life experiences — a treasure chest of lessons, stories, and strengths.

Who’s better equipped to handle life’s unpredictability than someone who’s lived a lot of it?

Man on his birthday not realising the benefits of aging

Breaking the “Too Late” Myth

We hear it all the time: “It’s too late for me,” or “That ship has sailed.” But that’s just not true. In fact, it’s one of the biggest lies society tells — that the older you get, the less you have to offer.

Take Colonel Sanders, who started KFC at 62. Or Grandma Moses, who began painting in her late 70s. These aren’t exceptions — they’re reminders. Starting later in life doesn’t make your success less valid. It makes it richer.

The Benefits of Aging Go Beyond Wisdom

The benefits of aging aren’t just about knowledge — though that’s a big part of it. It’s also about resilience, clarity, and confidence that only time can bring.

Think about it:

  • You’ve seen trends come and go — and learned what truly matters.

  • You know how to solve problems by thinking ahead, not just reacting.

  • You’re likely calmer under pressure — because you’ve been there before.

And that inner strength? That’s something younger versions of ourselves only dream of having.

Experience Is a Superpower (Not a Limitation)

Over time, we develop a kind of “life literacy.” You can see patterns, spot red flags, and connect dots that others miss.

You’ve built this toolkit from years of living, working, trying, failing, and trying again. That’s not just valuable — it’s irreplaceable.

Adaptability is another unsung benefit.

You’ve adjusted to changing times — from the internet to mobile phones to smartphones, handwritten letters to Zoom calls. You’ve grown with the world, and that flexibility is pure gold.

Older lady happy working with technology and knowing the benefits of aging

Passing It On: Sharing What You’ve Gained

One of the most powerful things about growing older is the ability to give back — not just with time, but with insight.

Mentoring, volunteering, guiding others — these aren’t just kind gestures. They’re meaningful ways to shape the future. Younger people aren’t just looking for facts — they’re looking for wisdom. And your story? It’s part of that.

The Modern World Needs Your Experience

This fast-paced, tech-filled world might feel intimidating at times, but it actually needs voices like yours.

More companies are valuing age diversity. They understand that real insight comes from experience. Strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, big-picture planning — these aren’t things you learn in a crash course. They come from life.

Whether it’s starting a new project, launching a blog, or sharing your journey, this is your time. The benefits of aging include having the clarity to know what you want — and the courage to go after it.

And if you’re thinking of building something online? A platform like Wealthy Affiliate is perfect for any age. It’s welcoming, beginner-friendly, and full of people rewriting the story of what’s possible.

And Finally...

You’ve lived through change. You’ve handled challenges. You’ve built up wisdom that no online search can replicate. That’s powerful — and it’s shareable.

The benefits of aging aren’t just internal. They ripple outward. They influence families, communities, and whole industries.

So don’t shrink back — lean in. Own your story.
And if you’ve felt your age as a superpower lately, I’d love to hear about it in the comments. Let’s celebrate what we bring to the table.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

It’s Okay to Ask Questions

It’s Okay to Ask Questions

by | May 23, 2025 | Online Business & Mindset

…Even When Everyone Else Seems To Know The Answer It’s Okay To Ask Questions

Have you ever stepped into a room—virtual or real—and felt like everyone else already knew the drill? Like you were handed a script halfway through the play? That invisible weight of assumed knowledge can leave you feeling uncertain, embarrassed, or just plain exhausted.

This one’s personal for me. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve quietly nodded, smiled, and then gone off to Google things later. Not because I didn’t want to ask—but because it felt like I should already know. Maybe you’ve felt that too.

Here’s something I’ve come to learn the hard way: it’s okay to ask questions. Truly. Even when everyone else seems confident, even when the moment feels awkward — asking is one of the most powerful things you can do.

Lady feels it's okay to ask questions and is raising her hand

When Everyone Assumes You Already Know

Ever feel like you’re walking into a room and everyone assumes you’re up to speed? It’s like you’re expected to know everything without a heads-up. That silent pressure often sneaks in when you’re starting a new job, joining a group, or diving into something unfamiliar online.

These unspoken assumptions can quietly shape how we relate to others. Whether it’s a friend assuming you’re caught up on a conversation, or a colleague expecting you to know what’s going on with a project — you’re left feeling like the odd one out. It can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and that all-too-familiar fear of “looking silly.”

But again — it’s okay to ask questions. You’re not behind. You’re learning. And that’s something to celebrate, not hide.  Most of the time there will someone else who wanted to ask the same question!

It’s Okay to Ask Questions — Really

Too often, we treat asking questions like a last resort — something we do only when we’ve “failed” to figure it out ourselves. But let’s flip that story. It’s okay to ask questions because it shows strength, not weakness. It means you’re curious. You care. You’re actively choosing to grow.

Even just saying, “I want to make sure I’m on the same page — could you explain that?” can shift the tone of a conversation. And chances are, someone else in the room was quietly wondering the same thing.

From the classroom to the boardroom to building an online business — the people who grow the most are usually the ones who are willing to raise their hand. It’s okay to ask questions, even if it feels awkward at first. The more you practice, the more natural it becomes.

When I first joined Wealthy Affiliate in 2013 I was so lacking in any online experience and flailed about for weeks before I plucked up the courage to ask a question in Live Chat.  It was a revelation for me because so many of the answers included the phrase ‘Oh yes, I remember being at a loss with that one’ or ‘I had the same question’ or ‘It took me ages to really understand that…’ 

I have asked so many question (so more than once!!)  I’ve always felt so safe and know that any question I ask will be answered patiently and until I understand.  It’s come to the point now where I can answer those same questions. There’s nothing like learning a topic properly until you can teach it.

Helping Others Feel Safe to Ask, Too

When you model this mindset, you don’t just help yourself — you help others feel braver too. You open the door for clarity, collaboration, and real connection.

Whether you’re part of a learning group, managing a team, or writing a blog post, try creating spaces where people want to ask. This could be:

  • Pausing and inviting questions
  • Saying things like, “This might be new for some of us…”
  • Using tools like Q&A sessions or anonymous suggestion boxes

Empathy plays a big role here. When we respond kindly to someone’s question, we show them it’s safe to speak up. We make room for growth — and that’s something worth nurturing.

And Finally…

You don’t have to have all the answers. And you’re certainly not the only one who’s ever felt unsure, behind, or a little lost.

Let this be your reminder: it’s okay to ask questions.
 It’s okay not to know.
 It’s okay to learn as you go.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a moment like that — where everyone assumed you were up to speed and you weren’t — I’d love to hear about it. Feel free to share your story in the comments. Your voice matters here.

The Benefits Of Pen And Paper

The Benefits Of Pen And Paper

by | May 19, 2025 | Online Business & Mindset

Calm, Focus, And A Creative Spark

There’s something comforting about sitting down with a cup of coffee and a blank page.

The benefits of pen and paper go far beyond nostalgia — they bring focus, calm, and creativity in a world full of digital noise.

It might sound a little old-fashioned in this age of apps and cloud storage, but handwriting still offers something deeply personal and meaningful. 

At least, it does to me.

Fountain Pen

The Benefits of Pen and Paper in a Digital World

There’s something undeniably charming about putting pen to paper. That tactile experience creates a connection that digital tools often lack. The feel of the pen as it glides over the page brings a simplicity and artistry you just can’t get from tapping on a screen.

And it’s not just about aesthetics. When you’re scribbling in a notebook, you’re less likely to be distracted by notifications or browser tabs. It’s like giving your brain a gentle shield — an anti-distraction superpower that helps you stay present.

On a cognitive level, handwriting may even help you retain more information. Studies suggest that writing things down engages the brain in deeper ways than typing. For many, it sparks creativity and helps with problem-solving — a quiet kind of thinking that screens don’t always allow space for.

And let’s not forget the emotional layer. Pen and paper carry stories. Whether it’s a note tucked into a keepsake box or the well-worn pages of an old diary, they hold a weight that text messages and digital files simply don’t.

Handwriting as a Gentle Daily Practice

Fountain pen and the benefits of pen and paper

In today’s fast-paced world, the benefits of pen and paper are more relevant than ever — especially when it comes to mental well-being. Journaling, for instance, isn’t just a passing trend. It’s a powerful tool for reflection, clarity, and self-care.

Even something like bullet journaling can be both grounding and creative. It’s more than just a to-do list — it’s a space for personal expression, tracking habits, and setting goals in a way that feels enjoyable rather than overwhelming.

For artists and creatives, sketching on paper allows ideas to flow freely. There’s no “undo” button or backspace key — and that can be wonderfully freeing. Whether you’re doodling, mind-mapping, or just scribbling thoughts, the page becomes a playground for imagination.

Everyday Ways to Embrace Pen and Paper

You don’t have to choose between analog and digital. In fact, blending the two can offer the best of both worlds. While apps are great for managing big tasks, the benefits of pen and paper come through in moments that call for focus, reflection, or a more human touch.

Here are a few easy ways to bring more handwriting into your life:

  • Choose stationery you love. A classic Moleskine or a cheerful planner can make writing feel like a treat, not a chore. Think of it like putting on your favourite cozy sweater.  The feel of a Moleskine journal is wonderful.
  • Create a writing nook. It could be a quiet corner of the dining table or a comfy chair by the window. Having a dedicated space can gently remind you to pause and write.
  • Start small. You don’t need to fill pages. Jot down a few thoughts from your day or a little gratitude list. These tiny rituals can bring surprising clarity and calm.
  • Brainstorm offline. I still reach for my notebook before writing blog posts — in fact, this one started on paper! There’s something about seeing your thoughts laid out that makes things click.

At Wealthy Affiliate, where I host all my websites, they encourage finding the tools that support your way of working. If that includes pen and paper, embrace it — your method is part of your magic.

And Finally...

If you’ve been feeling a little frazzled or digitally drained lately, maybe it’s time to go back to basics. The benefits of pen and paper might just surprise you — not only in what you get done, but in how grounded and refreshed you feel doing it.

Do you still use pen and paper?

Is there a favourite notebook or journaling ritual you swear by?
 I’d truly love to hear about it in the comments.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

7 Questions About Starting an Online Business

7 Questions About Starting an Online Business

by | May 12, 2025 | Online Business & Mindset

(That You're Afraid To Ask!)

Let’s be honest—starting an online business for beginners can feel like walking into a room where everyone already seems to know what they’re doing. And that can be intimidating, especially if you’re stepping into the digital world later in life.  If you’ve ever wondered about starting an online business, but felt unsure where to begin, here are seven questions that might guide the way.

But here’s a little secret: everyone starts as a beginner.

Even the people who seem confident now once felt unsure about things like websites, email lists, and SEO.  For anyone starting an online business later in life, it’s important to ask thoughtful questions before diving in.

So today, I want to gently walk you through 7 of the most common questions people are too embarrassed to ask—but should! 

No jargon, no tech talk—just real, honest guidance to help you feel more at ease.

starting an online business

1. Am I Too Old for Starting An Online Business?

Absolutely not. In fact, many people in their 50s, 60s and beyond are launching thriving online businesses. You’ve got life experience, work ethic, and stories to tell—and all of that adds richness to your business that no social media trend can compete with.

It’s never about age—it’s about curiosity, willingness to learn, and taking one step at a time.

Check out this story on Startups.co.uk of older entrepreneurs making waves online.

2. Do I Need to Be “Techy” to Do This?

Not at all.

If you can use email and browse the web, you’re already more tech-savvy than you think. Platforms like Wealthy Affiliate offer beginner-friendly tools, training, and support that walk you through everything—from choosing a website name to understanding how to get found on Google.

It’s not about knowing everything—it’s about knowing where to start (and where to ask for help!).

3. How Much Does It Cost to Start?

One of the perks of starting an online business for beginners is that it doesn’t have to cost the earth. You’ll need:

  • A domain name (around £10–£15 per year)
  • Website hosting (some platforms include it)
  • Optional: A training program like Wealthy Affiliate that includes hosting, support, and lessons in one place.  A Starter membership is free.

You can start small, test the waters, and grow gradually.

4. What If I Pick the Wrong Niche?

Choosing your niche (your website topic or focus) is one of the first big decisions—and yes, it can feel scary. But here’s the good news: you’re allowed to change your mind.

Start with something you’re passionate about or curious to learn. If it doesn’t feel quite right after a while, you can refine or pivot. Your first niche is not a life sentence—it’s a starting point.

Need help picking a niche? Try this free brainstorming tool at Ubersuggest or explore niche ideas inside Wealthy Affiliate.

5. What If I Don’t Know What to Write About?

This is one of the most common worries when starting an online business for beginners—but trust me, you have more to say than you think.

Here are a few content ideas to get you started:

  • Share your story (why you started)

  • Answer common questions in your niche

  • Review tools or products you’ve found helpful

  • Write “how-to” posts for beginners

Still stuck? I’ve written an article to help you: How To Come Up With Enough Content For Your Website

6. Do I Need Social Media to Succeed?

Not necessarily.

Social media can help you grow faster, but it’s not essential at the beginning. You can build a simple blog, learn SEO, and bring in traffic through Google without ever posting a dance on TikTok (promise!).

That said, platforms like Pinterest or Facebook can be great ways to reach your audience over time.

Start with one and build slowly.

starting an online business and social media

7. What If I Fail?

Ah, the F-word: failure.

It’s the fear that stops so many brilliant people before they’ve even begun.

But here’s the truth: failure is part of the process. You might try something that doesn’t work—but you’ll learn from it and come back stronger. Every step, even the wobbly ones, moves you forward.

Your first website won’t be perfect. Your first post might feel awkward. But the only real failure is giving up before you’ve had the chance to grow.

If you’re curious about starting your own online business, Wealthy Affiliate has supported me step by gentle step — you can explore beginner-friendly training here

And Finally...

Starting an online business can feel daunting at first—but I hope you can see now that most of the fear comes from not knowing what to expect.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be willing to take one small step. Then another. And another.  Starting an online business doesn’t have to be rushed — especially if you’re taking a thoughtful, steady path.

If you’re looking for a supportive place to learn and grow, I highly recommend Wealthy Affiliate. It’s where I started, and it’s full of friendly faces who’ve felt exactly like you do right now.

What’s the one question you’ve been too afraid to ask about starting online? Drop it in the comments—I’ll answer every one, promise!

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

AI for Beginners: How It Can Boost Your Online Business

AI for Beginners: How It Can Boost Your Online Business

by | Mar 26, 2025 | Online Business & Mindset

The term Artificial Intelligence (AI) might sound complex, but at its core, it’s simply about machines learning to think and make decisions like humans.

AI can help your online business by automating tasks, improving customer experience, and making your marketing efforts more effective.

Let’s break it down into simple, practical steps that you can use to grow your online presence.

A Quick Look at AI: Then and Now

AI isn’t new.

It started as an idea in the 1950s, but today, it’s a real game-changer in business. What was once a futuristic dream is now something businesses of all sizes can use.

AI is no longer just for tech giants – it’s available in tools you can start using today to make running your business easier and more efficient.

AI Then and now

How AI Can Improve Customer Experience

One of the biggest advantages of AI is its ability to improve the way customers interact with your business. Here are a few ways AI can make a difference:

  • Personalised Recommendations – AI analyses customer data to suggest products or content based on their preferences. This means customers see things that are actually relevant to them, making them more likely to buy.
  • AI-Powered Chatbots – These virtual assistants can answer customer questions 24/7, giving instant replies and freeing up your time.
  • Predicting Customer Needs – AI studies customer behaviour and helps businesses anticipate what people want before they even realise it themselves.

Making Business Operations Smoother with AI

AI isn’t just about customer experience – it can also help behind the scenes, making your business more efficient.

  • Automating Repetitive Tasks – AI tools can handle things like scheduling social media posts, sending emails, or managing stock levels, saving you hours of manual work.
  • Smarter Inventory Management – AI can predict which products will be popular and help ensure you don’t run out or overstock items.
  • Better Decision-Making – AI analyses large amounts of data and provides insights to help you make smarter business choices without relying on guesswork.
AI streamlining

AI-Driven Marketing Strategies

If you want to reach the right people with your marketing, AI can help.

  • Targeted Ads – AI ensures your ads reach the people most likely to be interested in your products or services, meaning better results for less money.
  • Predicting Trends – AI can spot patterns in customer behaviour, helping you stay ahead of market trends rather than just reacting to them.
  • Real-Time Analytics – AI collects and analyses data instantly, so you can adjust your marketing campaigns quickly if needed.

AI Tools You Can Use Today

If you’re wondering where to start, here are some beginner-friendly AI tools that can help with different aspects of your business:

  • ChatGPT – Great for content creation, customer service support, and automating responses.
  • Grammarly – Helps improve writing quality by checking grammar, spelling, and tone.
  • Shopify AI – Perfect for e-commerce businesses looking for smart product recommendations and inventory management.
  • Google Analytics AI – Helps track and analyse website visitor behaviour to improve engagement and conversions.

How to Get Started with AI

Not sure where to begin? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Identify what you need help with – Do you need better marketing, improved customer service, or help managing stock? Start by focusing on one area.
  2. Choose an AI tool – Look for a free or affordable AI tool that fits your needs (see the list above for ideas).
  3. Test it out – Start small and experiment with the AI tool to see how it works for your business.
  4. Keep the human touch – AI is a great assistant, but personal engagement is still key to building trust with your customers.

Addressing Common AI Myths

There are a few common misconceptions about AI that might make people hesitant to use it. Let’s clear them up:

  • “AI will take over my business” – AI is here to help, not replace you. It’s a tool to assist, not run everything on its own.
  • “AI is too expensive” – Many AI tools are free or offer budget-friendly plans for small businesses.
  • “AI is complicated” – Most modern AI tools are designed to be user-friendly and easy to set up, even for beginners.
AI MYTHS

The Challenges of Using AI

While AI offers many benefits, it’s important to be aware of some challenges:

  • Privacy Concerns – Customers want to know their data is safe. If you use AI, be transparent about how you’re collecting and using information.
  • Bias in AI Systems – AI can sometimes reflect biases in the data it learns from, leading to unfair results. Businesses need to check that AI tools are being used fairly and ethically.
  • Keeping a Human Touch – AI can automate many processes, but customers still appreciate genuine human interaction. The key is to use AI to support your business, not replace the personal connections that build trust.

And Finally...

AI isn’t just a flashy new technology – it’s a powerful tool that can make running your online business easier and more successful.

Whether it’s automating tasks, improving customer service, or refining your marketing strategy, AI offers practical benefits that anyone can use, even if you’re just starting out.

Take your time to explore AI tools that fit your needs, and you’ll soon see how they can help your business grow.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.