I am a former journalist, editor, writer, and designer. After working for more than 20 years for several national magazines, I transitioned to work for a large non-profit in recruitment and fundraising. Like publishing, the world of non-profit was not able to provide a living wage.
Several years in sales taught me a great deal about not knowing how much you might earn from week to week. I built two businesses, in both insurance and investments. I remain involved in the insurance industry, first investigating claims and now teaching others the skill needed to protect customers from insurance fraud.
I have also had a few side jobs over the years to add extra income when needed. However, advancing toward my sixties, I am not willing to push my body in ways I could a decade ago. I need to find a potential income stream that doesn’t require me to wear out my bones, tear tendons, or pull muscles.
Selling print-on-demand products has an enticing draw. I can use my skills learned years ago when I mastered the use of typeface, layout, and graphics. I had other businesses. Was this any different? The answer is both yes and no. Unlike traditional business, online selling without actual overhead should be easier. It is not unlike insurance. There is no physical product to build, stock or display.
I figure with my experience and background, I can earn a passive income in no time.
I have been learning that it’s not so easy after all.