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Luck Is Not The Same As Success

This post was most recently updated on July 29th, 2016

Luck Is Not The Same As Success

Some people have told me I’m pretty lucky to have reached such a high level of success online.  But I don’t believe in luck.  In any event, luck is not success. It takes hard work to build a business.  It takes a fire and passion burning within you. 

Not many of my readers have heard where my passion has come from.

Since I attribute my success to passion, not luck, I want to take this time to share with you where mind comes from.

The Road I Traveled

After my ex-husband and I split up, I became a single mom with a 3 year old child. 

I gave up a nice house, a business shared with my ex, cars, money in the bank… everything, in order to get quick custody of my daughter. 

I knew then that no matter what, she was the center of my world and I had to protect her, even if the trade off was all my worldly possessions.  It was quite easy to do, but …  where the heck was I going to live? 

You guessed it! 

I moved in with my parents.  They had a nice size apartment in Brooklyn, NY.   

There I was, going back home and let me tell you, it was pretty depressing to be in this place.  I needed help with raising my daughter, though, so I could go back to school while working odd jobs. 

All the time I struggled and juggled, I had a fire burning inside me to succeed and to provide my daughter with her own home. 

It was a three year run there at my parent’s house.  I finished school, but the job market wasn’t good in my field. I couldn’t see how the heck I was going to succeed on the low salary of a social worker.

It was during the time that I met David, who is now my husband. 

He lived outside the city in a cute little town.  I decided to move up there for a better school system for my daughter. 

Let me tell you… I had just enough money to move into a tiny apartment.  It was my first big leap of trust in myself.  I figured I would grab any job in order to pay bills.  

Do you call that lucky?

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In the meanwhile, David suggested that I start writing a book.  We had first met when I was transcribing the same book that he was editing and marketing for a client. 

Now, he thought it was time I write my own, and he would edit and market it.  Who me?   I didn’t think I could actually write my own book, but I took the leap of faith and did it.

This was old world publishing, before computers, and copy/paste editing. 

I had to write the book, edit it manually, then send it to a printer for binding and covering.  Then, we contacted a list broker to buy a list of target prospects.  

We had to stuff envelopes with a long-form sales page for which we did our own copy writing, and then waited for checks to come in the mail so we could fulfill the orders. 

Guess what happened? 

After all those paper cuts, the book did tremendously well. 

So, I started my second. 

We repeated the process and enough money rolled in not only to pay bills, but also to accomplish my second goal which was to open a shop in the village we lived in. 

Does this all sound like luck to you?

… or maybe, determination fired by a passion to succeed?

Opening My Shop

So, here I was in a small village outside of Manhattan, where I didn’t know a soul. 

I had enough money to put up shelves, obtain a few products to put on them, and invite people to visit my new business called Mind over Matter. 

You see my friends, if you didn’t know this about me already, I am a psychic.  I had done”intuitive consulting” previously, but this was the first time I actually set up a regular practice.   

Since I was new in town and virtually unknown, I had to come up with a catchy phrase to get people into the shop.  So on a pink poster board sign, I wrote down “Psychic Readings… 7 minute quickie for $10.”  

That turned people’s head… he he he. 

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They didn’t know quite what to expect.  But they followed the trail of incense into my lovely little candle lit shop.

Once there, they could browse self-help and spiritual journey books.  It gave them a non-threatening opportunity to eye-ball me and see if they felt comfortable enough to approach me about my consultation services.

I even prominently displayed a policy and protocol statement describing how I conducted my sessions.  I made it very clear that I wasn’t one of those psychics who would simply tell people what they wanted to know in exchange for a fee. 

Within one week, I made enough money to pay the rent and then some. 

It was like a buzz. 

People liked the sessions, built instant trust and rapport with me, and told others.

By the time the first weekend came, there were actually lines of people waiting for a session with me. 

Over time, I got so busy that I could no longer accept “walk-in” clients.  They had to schedule appointments in advance.  Meanwhile, the shop where I conducted sessions bristled with activity.  Incense, books and other merchandise flew off the shelves. 

Did this success result from being lucky?

Or was it because my clients sensed that I truly cared about helping them, and because I didn’t hesitate to give them extra time without charging them when I saw that they needed it; and selling things in the shop at a fair price, not being greedy. 

A New Turn

So things went along, my business helped provide my family with the things we needed, and my daughter went off to college.

Now, I was ready to leave apartment life, and purchase a home.

I wanted to move away, though, from the little village where I had built my flourishing practice.

When I first moved there, it was a quaint, artsy community.  It was changing fast, though.  It no longer felt like vibrant and creative.  I needed to be around people that carried that kind of energy. 

So I moved away.

I chose to live by a huge waterfall in a lovely college town in central New York state. 

Perfect fit… but…

I was a newcomer once again.

I left my practice and would have had to start all over again, except for one thing.

I had a list of my clients. 

I had told them I was moving and how they could contact me to do consultations over the phone instead of coming to my office. 

People are funny.  It takes them a while to acclimate to change.  But I knew they would catch on eventually, and they did.

I soon found myself fully booked, working many hours a day on the phone with my loyal clients along with new ones that found me through word of mouth networking. 

In fact, I had built my practice almost entirely through referrals. 

I never advertised a day in my life, although I was pretty active giving tv and radio interviews, and for a while, I co-hosted my own talk radio show with David.

Still, for the most part, my practice was built on a network of referrals. 

By the way, I still keep my loyal clients to this very day.

Blogging

In the meanwhile, David grew a new interest besides the real estate investing we did together.

Somehow, he had decided to “go online”. 

He had developed a thing called a “blog” and started noticing him spending more and more time writing and learning things. 

I peeked over his shoulder from time to time, but didn’t really give it much thought until…

I was starting to see how poorly the economy was, and how it had really moved into a bad place that showed little signs of improvement any time too soon. 

My clients confirmed this.

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Every day they were telling me stories of losing their jobs, getting downsized, demoted, and losing large chunks of their investments and pensions.

Others were so weary from their 9-5 jobs that they were becoming emotionally and physically ill.  I got this bright idea that if I were to be a forerunner for them to have an online business, they might follow in my footsteps, improve their lives, and be happier.

After all, that was sort of the bottom line to my entire profession… helping people improve their lives.

I felt that inner passion taking over once again.  So, I started my own blog.

I learned a few things looking over David’s shoulder.  Our morning coffee time turned into informal mastermind conversations where I started getting some clarity on my blogging purpose, direction and strategy.

I was loving it.  The passion was driving me once again.  What a great way to help my clients!

So, I was in business… the blogging business.

I had my first blog and was determined (not “lucky”) to make it successful.

It was pretty scary at first because I didn’t have confidence in my blogging abilities.

Because I was always the entrepreneur, though, I knew one thing.  Money would not come in a Friday afternoon check on the job.  It would only come in ebbs and tides,  In fact, it probably wouldn’t come at all until I really established myself, developed relationships with people, and built sincere trust. 

All that was fine with me.  Again, I’d been down that road before, being an entrepreneur all my life.

I was ready to dig in and get busy. 

The first reality I had to face was the same as when I first started my intuitive consulting practice:

I had no followers at all…zero! 

But, I plotted my course and started putting to work the process.

I kept on writing consistently, even though when I look back, a lot of it really stunk! 

But I didn’t care because I was determined and passionate.

I knew I had to learn the ropes. 

I dedicated my time and energy negotiating one learning curve after another:

  • learning the basics of WordPress
  • video
  • images
  • skilled research and writing
  • social media integration

I started putting all my skills, both new and old, into motion.

I did the learning, but made it a habit to implement those things immediately.

After following this process of learning, then implementing for a fairly short time, my blog actually started to grow!

BUT…  I didn’t know the “business” side of it

I still had only a small following, a small amount traffic, and no income.

It was like starting Mind over Matter all over again. 

I recalled the concept of the $10 quickie that had quickly helped me build trust. But how the heck was I going to do this with blogging?

I made it my business to figure it all out.

I invested my Time and Money carefully, and wisely:

  • reading
  • buying and consuming courses
  • attending training events
  • Most Important… hiring some quality coaching

Luck Is Not The Same As Success

The results of all this were really pretty dramatic.

I created my very first digital product as an opt-in offer to help my email list grow. 

It was a video series to help people overcome procrastination.  It was Free and became quite popular.  My list was really growing… Whoopie! 

But I didn’t have a sales funnel in place.  That’s essential (I soon found out) in order to convert your subscribers into buyers. It was the next hurdle I had to clear, and once I did… my blogging business began to skyrocket.

Meanwhile, my blog was growing rapidly as I learned more and more about how to blog the RIGHT way.

As my blog rose in page rankings, it attracted lots of traffic, comments and engagement. That made me so happy, and I was having a blast.

People saw I had become a very successful blogger and often said how lucky I was to have all that traffic and activity on my blog. 

They started writing about me, interviewing me, and asking to guest post on their sites.  At first I was flattered, then I had to start turning down offers because I just couldn’t keep up with it all.

Then I developed my first premium products, Blogging Magic and the Whirlwind Success VIP Club. 

They quickly took my blogging business to a whole new level, and one that I could never have imagined when I first started blogging.  Associates saw all this, and often told me I was lucky to be such a successful blogger.  

Successful, yes.

But not lucky.

Luck is not success.

The path to success was simple.

I learned how to blog.

I did it consistently and passionately.

Then I learned how to blog the right way.

Everything changed at that point.

In my next post, I am going to share with you what I have found is the difference between “blogging” and “blogging the right way.”

Looking forward to seeing you, then.

Meanwhile, please leave me a comment below.  You know I love the comments I get from my readers. 

What path are you on? 

How important do you think luck is in the scheme of things?

Blessings,

-Donna

Donna Merrill
Donna is a well known blogger and creator of "Blogging Magic" - an intensive guide to blogging. "Blogging Magic" is for beginners who are trying to figure out how to bring their blogs to life with tons of visits, comments and social media interaction. It's even for advanced bloggers looking to reach new levels of authority and engagement with their audience.

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72 Responses to Luck Is Not The Same As Success

  1. Donna Merrill
    Twitter:
    February 28, 2015 at 3:14 pm #

    Hi Monna,

    I’m glad you came back to read it again. And it is so good to know that David and I gave you that “kick in the pants” you needed to move forward. But we can only give you that, and the rest is up to you. That you need to take credit for! So give yourself a gold star my friend.

    -Donna
    Donna Merrill recently posted..Should Bloggers Give Away Their Best Information?My Profile

  2. Monna Ellithorpe
    Twitter:
    February 26, 2015 at 6:42 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I just had to let you know I read this post again and it inspired me just as much as it did the first time I read it.

    That kick in the pants you and David gave me is still working and I’m moving forward, even more than I thought I would.

    Thank you, again. 🙂
    Monna Ellithorpe recently posted..Is There Money Hidden In Your Computer?My Profile

  3. Erika Mohssen-Beyk
    Twitter:
    February 26, 2015 at 5:30 pm #

    Hi Donna,
    thank you for your story,
    I heard some parts of your story and
    could imagine that it was no,, was people call luck.
    If it would have been that easy Donna would not be
    our Donna today 🙂
    There are a lot of slogans out there, which are used
    and I have the feeling people do not really know what
    it means.
    Success can be for everybody different, but to get there
    has in my opinion to do with listening to the heart, intuition,
    and acting on them. Having a vision and passion and go after it
    until you get where you want to be.
    Being grateful and giving on the journey helps.
    Thank you
    Erika

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      February 28, 2015 at 3:12 pm #

      Hi Erika,

      What a beautiful comment. Yes, success means something different to everyone. But if one wants to reach their level of success, one has to do it with a listening heart, intuition. We do need a vision and passion to go after it.

      And of course…being grateful on this journey is most important of all. Otherwise one can loose sight of where and how they are getting there.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Should Bloggers Give Away Their Best Information?My Profile

  4. Joy Healey
    Twitter:
    December 15, 2014 at 9:29 am #

    Hi Donna

    What an amazing story – I had no idea you had so many extra talents beyond blogging. Thanks for sharing that with us.

    Two of my favorite sayings are:

    “The harder I work, the luckier I get” and
    “The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary”

    Sorry, not sure who to thank for those sayings, but they are my inspiration and both obviously apply to you.

    My story is less tough, although my business background involves becoming a single Mum while my sons were at uni. Thankfully I had enough support to get them through that, but it left me needing to support myself with poor pension provisions (the blasted company went under!)

    “Luckily” my ex-hubbie had no further interest in the software business we had built up together, over 15+ years working weekends and late into the nights. So he kindly donated it to me and that’s one decent source of income – but it needs a lot of TLC.

    “Luckily” number two, I have also worked hard enough to have accumulated some rental properties – but there can be huge ups and downs with that, and I’m just recovering from a big down. (Should have been tough earlier….)

    Because those two income streams take up quite a lot of my time, I don’t find it easy finding time to hunt for lucky four-leafed clovers hidden in my blog!

    However, the one attribute I do have is I’m a stubborn and determined soul, so blog post by blog post and ebook by ebook I WILL move forward.

    Heck if I were going to give up, it would have been long ago.

    Fantastic read and I just loved the $10 quickies 🙂

    Joy
    Joy Healey recently posted..Build A Blog To Build A BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 20, 2014 at 10:55 am #

      Hi Joy,

      Thank you so much for sharing your story here. Quite interesting to get to know more about you. It is sure great that your ex-husband left you that business, so now you can build upon it.

      As for properties…I have a few myself and it is an up and down roller coaster ride. I used to have many because it was my husband and my goal to hold on to them for the “future” but, as the economy changed, we dropped them like crazy before they lowered in price “lucky” for us Eh?

      I sill have two. One is just great but the other I had to hire a management company to take care of. I don’t want to be distracted on this journey on the internet lol.

      We do have one thing in common and that is our stubborn and determined soul! I’m sure you will have much success with your ebook and then it will grow into other things.

      he he love that quicke Ehh?

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Blogging In 2015My Profile

  5. Llyane December 13, 2014 at 8:06 pm #

    Luck is when good timing meets preparation. We have to be prepared for luck, to see it, to recognize it and take advantage. Nice story! 🙂
    Llyane recently posted..How to have a romantic ChristmasMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 20, 2014 at 10:45 am #

      Hi Llyane,

      Glad you enjoyed this post. Luck can be used as opportunity. If so, then when we meet it, we can then jump on it and take action.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Blogging In 2015My Profile

  6. William Earl Amis Jr III
    Twitter:
    December 7, 2014 at 7:52 pm #

    Donna, this is well put together!

    We all have to face our willingness to accept being responsible for our future. All that has happened to us. We are the only one’s who had the choices that produced all our outcomes. Luck, is a word expressed by people who have no clarity on executing actions to help get them to their goals. Once you learn that you have to make things happen, for you. The term Luck is obsolete.

    Donna, thank you for sharing your life travels and may the rest of it. Bring you enjoyment and prosperity.
    William Earl Amis Jr III recently posted..A Willingness To ChangeMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 20, 2014 at 10:43 am #

      Hi William,

      Aha…I like the way you said “Luck, is a word expressed by people who have no clarity on executing actions to help them to their goals” How true!

      Thank you for enhancing this post with our wise words,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Blogging In 2015My Profile

  7. Rachel Lavern
    Twitter:
    December 7, 2014 at 7:04 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I believe that one’s ability to create your dream life is NOT based on luck or chance. Instead, it is determined by how well you use the invisible Laws of Success, which many people use against themselves due to their limiting beliefs and they are unaware of it. They are too and not enough. Apparently, you’ve used those laws well 🙂
    Rachel Lavern recently posted..A Second Strategy to Bring Clients BackMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 20, 2014 at 10:42 am #

      Hi Rachel,

      Well said! You are spot on girl. Noting is based on luck or chance.. I agree it is determined by how well we see the invisible Laws of Success. Many are unaware of this, and choose to toss it up to bad luck if something goes wrong.

      Thanks for your input,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Blogging In 2015My Profile

  8. Andrew
    Twitter:
    December 6, 2014 at 8:08 am #

    Hi Donna,

    This was truly an inspiring story you shared here. I didn’t know all these things about you but one thing I want to ask, would you still implement that direct mail strategy partially if you were to create a new product now?

    I know everyone is saying that online provides freedom and having everything done automatically, but there’s still not a lot of people that are online .. as hard as that is to believe.

    Just wondering.

    Anyway, great story again. And I believe we make our own luck. It’s called good decisions and hard work. Anyone can accomplish anything with those things … but also one thing you had working for you, which I find a lot of people have, is he motivating factor of your child. You wanted her to grow up in a nice home, etc.

    A lot of successful entrepreneurs have a lot of success when they have something that’s pushing them and motivating them to succeed. They have that never say die attitude.

    Truly great post and great story.

    Have a great weekend.

    – Andrew

    P.S. 7 minute quickie for $10. lol. That’s classic head turning advertising right there.

  9. Jenni Ryan
    Twitter:
    December 5, 2014 at 1:08 am #

    Inspiring story. I always find it fascinating when people think that success is about luck. I cant one think of one person that ever got lucky, well especially anyone that remained successful.

  10. Leanne Chesser
    Twitter:
    December 2, 2014 at 5:36 pm #

    What a great story, Donna! I don’t believe in luck either. What works is passion and determination like you said, and also purpose, learning, taking action and believing in yourself, among other things. Just have to say – – I love the name of your quickie readings :).
    Leanne Chesser recently posted..10 Simple Ways to Be More Authentic on TwitterMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      December 2, 2014 at 8:29 pm #

      Hi Leanne,

      No, luck is not something I believe in either. It takes all of the above that you mentioned to have success.

      Also time, we have to allow ourselves time to build a business. Thanks for liking the name of my “quickies”

      Sometimes ya just gotta go with something cleaver he he he

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..Learn To Blog The Right WayMy Profile

  11. Akaahan Terungwa
    Twitter:
    November 28, 2014 at 9:39 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Interesting bits about your life I can relate with personally…after I finished reading, I understand perfectly how your clients rap instantly with you. You have a magical way of endearing people to you!

    Back to the matter at hand: like you, I do not believe in ‘luck’. For me, I’ll aptly summarize that we all create our own luck and it this never happens magically! The sleepless nights, the hard work, the passion etc all amount to luck. But, if that can’t be seen – or addressed as luck, I don’t know what the definition of luck is!

    Do make the day great!

    Always,
    Terungwa
    Akaahan Terungwa recently posted..Let Me Design A Professional Website For You For Free (Pay For Only Hosting And Get A Free Domain Name For Life)!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 29, 2014 at 11:28 am #

      Hi Terungwa,

      I did want to share some bits and pieces of my life because we all have things we have to overcome in order to be successful at just about anything in our lives.

      As long as we have a clear idea of what we want to accomplish, have the determination to do it and not let anyone knock us down, we can achieve what we set out to do.

      No, I too don’t understand the concept of luck. I think it is a poor excuse others may say about someone because they don’t know what it took to achieve their success.

      Many thanks for your input,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  12. ikechi
    Twitter:
    November 28, 2014 at 7:42 pm #

    HI Donna

    Your story is really inspiring and it shows that truly success is more about hard work than luck. I love the fact that even though you were faced with challenges in your journey to financial freedom, your allowed your creativity and determination to overcome the situation.

    One needs to get his hand dirty and do what must be done if he desires to reach a goal. Believing in luck is limiting and will not take you far, you need to work hard, learn from your mistakes and keep improving to be successful.

    Thanks for sharing.
    ikechi recently posted..Building Confidence: 11 Examples of People That Turned Weakness To An AssetMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 29, 2014 at 11:17 am #

      Hi Ikechi,

      Thank you so much for your input! Indeed, one needs to get his hands dirty and do what must be done if he desires to reach a goal.

      That’s the secret of success! “Ya gotta do what ya gotta do” Is my motto. Along my journey, I was always an entrepreneur. Against all odds and people telling me I’m crazy, I just kept on doing anything to reach goals.

      It was an emotional roller coaster, and it wasn’t easy, but I never looked at anything as luck, but rather a journey to learn from, and persistence to carry on.

      Thanks for stopping by,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  13. Donna Merrill
    Twitter:
    November 28, 2014 at 2:42 pm #

    Hi Sherman,

    This share is only a tid bit of my journey. If you knew so much more to it, the movie would be out! There were so many things in my journey of life I had to deal with and overcome.

    Let me say it wasn’t easy at all, but for all entrepreneurs out there, I just hope they could resonate with it. Life throws us curve balls all the time. It is what we do with them that counts.

    Yes, I did take that bull by it’s horns, but it wasn’t easy at all. Maybe I should write a screen play..

    Many of my close friends know the many things I had to go through since I came to this earth. How things knocked me down, how I struggled to pick myself up. They all want me to write my story. I’m just not at that point yet, but if I were, it would be a move!

    Happy Thanksgiving,

    -Donna
    Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  14. Sherman Smith November 28, 2014 at 2:08 am #

    Hey Donna,

    It is time to make a movie about your journey into the blogging world! This was a great and inspiring story of what you had to do in order to be where you are now.

    This is far from winning the lottery. You actually had to work hard, have passion and confidence to go through all of those stages in your life. From a divorce mother of a 3 year old to a blogging/online marketing connoisseur.

    Now just reading your story, how can anyone say that it was all luck! I can say it’s law of attraction, meaning that you kept your eyes and ears open for opportunity while you working. And that’s not even on some type of “spooky” mess what many may believe.

    You just took the bull by the horns and ran with it! This is what most people fear and limit themselves on. But i definitely have to comment you on your journey! It does take a lot of heart!

    Thanks for sharing your journey and I hope you had a great Thanksgiving!
    Sherman Smith recently posted..Should Network Marketers Use Online Attraction Marketing Systems?My Profile

  15. Dr. Erica Goodstone
    Twitter:
    November 28, 2014 at 12:48 am #

    Donna,

    I think that luck is a mixed bag. Some people seem to be luckier than others, even without putting in hard work and struggle. It is more than what Oprah says and Marquita quotes: “Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.”

    There is also our personality and how well we encourage and work with support form others. None of us can do it all alone. Others provide us with emotional support, sometimes financial support, and even opportunities that we could not get on our own.

    But there comes a point when we have to do the work, no matter how fortunate we have been until then. There is a learning curve in any new activity and skills to develop and strategies to learn.

    I have observed you over several years and your commitment to excellence has been apparent for a long time. Many people have gotten involved in the blogging groups to which we belong and many have drifted away when they realized how much time it takes to visit other blogs, leave a thoughtful comment and syndicate it.

    You diligently show a real interest in others and always leave thoughtful comments. Then you graciously share their work on many social media sites. That is why people have learned to know, like and trust you. And now your business is building. It certainly wasn’t luck that built it. Your determination, good will, and continual learning and practice are finally paying off for you.

    It was delightful learning more about your entrepreneurial experiences over the years. Coming from a background of academia with a secure position and a steady income, it has taken me many years to grasp the ebb and flow, ups and downs and exhilaration of being an entrepreneur. I always had a small entrepreneurial side to me, dabbling in different opportunities and having my own private counseling practice throughout my years as a professor. What I always had was a strong work ethic and a vision for the future.

    And I am still learning and growing.

    Warmly,

    Dr. Erica
    Dr. Erica Goodstone recently posted..Feeling Stuck? Get Moving. The Magic Is In The ActionMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 28, 2014 at 2:37 pm #

      Hi Dr. Erica,

      Thank you for adding so much to this discussion. I do love Opra’s quote and it rings true.

      Indeed, we do have to do the work. Sometimes it will take a while, but as long as we are consistent in what we are doing, and never give up, we can achieve all that we want.

      I appreciate you observing my work online and the beautiful feedback you have given. I so appreciate that, especially coming from you!

      I just had to share some of my experience over the past years to illustrate to others, that luck has nothing to do with success. As for the ebbs and tides of being an entrepreneur one has to quickly learn how to handle money. How to invest it in business and deal with it properly.

      You have such an impressive background and it enhances your online presence. You give us your gems of enlightenment all the time with everything you do and I sure appreciate that.

      Thank you so much…and I too am still learning and growing. Imagine if we stopped? How boring would that be lol.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  16. Monna Ellithorpe
    Twitter:
    November 27, 2014 at 9:11 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    When I read the first line of your post, I am thinking to myself, “How dare anyone say that it was luck for Donna to succeed online?”

    As I read your story, some of it mirrored my life and being a single mom and wanting the best for your child; Luck has nothing to do with it.

    Since I met you and David online, you both have been a great inspiration and motivators to me to get to work on what I had been trying to accomplish for a long time; without much confidence or success and that has changed, but it wasn’t ‘Luck” either.

    Thank you so much for being such an encouraging and concerned new friend.
    Monna Ellithorpe recently posted..Self Organization and Blog PlanningMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 28, 2014 at 2:19 pm #

      Hi Monna,

      Well, you know me more that others and understand the process I had to go through just with my business.

      I think most of us had to go through things with raising a child, or finding a way to make money to make ends meet. We also had to do what we had to do in order to make it through life. And Luck has nothing to do with it.

      I’m so happy that David and I have touched you in a certain way to boost your confidence. We seen an amazing woman. A strong woman. And a fantastic writer.

      I just came off of your blog and purchased your product of how you are now teaching others how to publish a book.

      Gosh you have written so many and have so much experience! I’m so happy you have done this Monna. All you needed was a “kick in your pants” he he he

      I have to get in touch with you and help you boost that product my friend.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  17. Zach
    Twitter:
    November 27, 2014 at 6:43 pm #

    Donna,

    It’s easy to see others’ success as the product of luck and our own success as a product of hard work. When we see others’ success, we see their accomplishments, but we don’t see the late nights, the hard work, and the sweat and blood put into the success.

    It’s like Obi-Wan Kenobi said, “In my experience, there’s no such thing as luck.”
    Zach recently posted..Are Oral Contracts Enforceable?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 28, 2014 at 2:14 pm #

      Hi Zach,

      So true! Many people look at others that are successful never thinking how they got there. Those sleepless nights, hard work, and sacrifices they had to make in order to achieve it.

      This is why I just needed to illustrate this point to my readers. It’s not luck at all!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  18. Don Purdum
    Twitter:
    November 27, 2014 at 8:13 am #

    Happy Thanksgiving Donna!!!!

    OMG… I LOVE your story. Thank you for sharing a bit of your journey with us! I love learning of how someone persevered and endured through challenges with tenacity in order to fulfill their dreams.

    You have showed me what kind of person you really are and your story is one that every entrepreneur or aspiring entrepreneur ought to read!

    I couldn’t agree more… there is no such thing as luck!

    There are only two things you can control in business and life; your effort and your attitude.

    You can’t control opportunity but you can be ready for it when it shows up. You can set the conditions so that opportunities come. Once they come it’s up to you to seize the opportunity.

    That’s exactly what you did Donna! You didn’t “fall into it” and you didn’t get lucky!

    You earned it by controlling what you could control and putting it out there with tenacity, courage, strategies and goals.

    Thank you so much for sharing your story Donna. You don’t get the fairly tale ending without the adversity, effort and a good attitude! All traits you demonstrated and modeled for us!

    Happy Thanksgiving Donna! I hope it’s the best one ever for you and your family!

    ~ Don Purdum
    Don Purdum recently posted..How Do I Build A Business When It Feels Like I’m Always Failing?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 28, 2014 at 2:01 pm #

      Hi Don,

      Happy Thanksgiving to you! It is so great to know that you loved this story. Truth is I only touched the bases…there is so much more I did overcome in my life.

      I wanted to illustrate to many that were say I was lucky these days. What I had to go through in the past and even now has nothing to do with luck at all.

      It’s planning, trying, sometimes giving one thing up for another. Sometimes it is a leap of faith.

      When opportunity comes, I jump on it like a wildcat if I know in my heart it is the right fit. People say I’m courageous. Actually I was throwing up before each radio show or talk I’ve done in the past.

      It’s all in my mindset to survive, and to survive well. It is some kind of deep emotion that I have within and get in touch with when I need to do something.

      I wanted to demonstrate some bits and pieces of my life of how courage exists in us all. We just have to make the decision to use it.

      Thanks Don!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  19. Mark
    Twitter:
    November 27, 2014 at 7:12 am #

    Wow Donna!

    What a totally fascinating journey you’re currently enjoying! And through it all you’ve demonstrated again and again incredible leadership, passion and sheer determination to succeed!

    No matter what your obstacles and or temporary set backs!

    Although you’ve shared different bits and pieces of your life before, personally I feel this is the most complete story you’ve shared yet!

    I think it’s incredible that each time you were challenged to start over from scratch, you’ve successfully risen to the challenge and them some!

    What an inspiration for the rest of us!

    As all truly great leaders often do! You’ve successfully demonstrated that “lady luck” has absolutely nothing to do with long term success!

    In fact, I’m starting to realize (thanks to you!) that there is most certainly a universal thought process and language for failure and mediocrity!

    And one sure sign is confusing “luck” and success!

    Thank you so much Donna for sharing such a fabulous story and I too can’t wait to discover the major differences between mere “blogging” and “blogging the right way!”
    Mark recently posted..How A Previously Unbeaten Champion Earned Far More Respect In Defeat Than Victory!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 28, 2014 at 1:56 pm #

      Hi Mark,

      Thanks so much! Yes it wasn’t “lady luck” at all. It was determination to succeed at whatever I’ve gone through in life. This is only a tid bit of it. I should write a book he he he

      I’m so glad you liked this Mark. Indeed, there is a universal thought process and language for failure and mediocrity. And you are spot on my friend it is a sure sign of confusing Luck as Success!

      Cheers!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  20. Lisa Sicard
    Twitter:
    November 26, 2014 at 6:07 am #

    Donna, it really cracks me up when people think others around them are lucky when they have really worked hard and made decisions daily to get to that “lucky” place.
    I do believe some in fate – that things happen for a reason but I think we can also MAKE things happen over time if we have the burning desire and passion to make them happen. It make take longer than we want or it may be much harder than we envision but we can make it happen with determination.
    Too many people give up before their dream becomes a reality. Then they will call themselves unlucky.
    Thanks for sharing your inspiring story with us today Donna! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
    Lisa Sicard recently posted..Interconnecting Your Social Media Accounts – Good or Bad?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:41 pm #

      Hi Lisa,

      When people say they are unlucky I see it as an excuse for not doing what they needed to do.

      Yes, we make things happen. It is something I strongly believe in.

      Indeed, too may people give up before their dreams become a reality…then do the blame game of calling it unlucky.

      Thanks for stopping by,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  21. Mi Muba
    Twitter:
    November 26, 2014 at 2:35 am #

    Hi Donna

    Very inspirational post and I do agree with you luck always supports hard workers and those who don’t want to lose. If there is anything like luck.

    If someone has not good luck what is her fault and if someone has good luck what miracles she did to get it.

    I think those who keep searching lame excuses for their failures ultimately take the support of luck factor.

    I can’t appreciate much this post because this is my favorite topic and your thoughts on it are ditto same like me.

    You literally snatched the victory from the jaws of defeat. If someone has real passion to win then even defeat has to surrender before her.

    I read somewhere there are two types of people in this world. One type is of winners and other type is of those who always defend their failure with several illogical things including luck factor.

    Thanks a lot for sharing this wonderful post which touched me a lot.
    Mi Muba recently posted..119 concrete reasons why you must build your blog communityMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:32 pm #

      Hi Mi Muba,

      So great to know this post has touched you. No I don’t believe in luck either.

      I do feel the same way as you when you wrote that those who keep searching lame excuses for their failures ultimately take the support of the luck factor.

      It is what we put into life that counts. Sometimes things look bleak, but we do have the power to turn things around to our favor no matter at what cost!

      Thanks so much!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  22. Neamat Tawadrous
    Twitter:
    November 25, 2014 at 4:52 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Wow, what a journey!! Such an inspiring story. Thanks so much for sharing it with us.

    I totally agree with you, luck has nothing to do with success. Success is the result of your hard work, determination and passion. Success means pressing on in-spite of all the obstacles because of the passion burning inside of you and because your eyes are fixed on the prize and you want to reach your goals.

    I also believe that when you have the passion and determination and you keep trying, God puts the right people in your path to help you through, in your case, it’s been David.

    You really inspired me Donna!! You are a wonderful person in and out!! I am so glad to come to know you.

    Thanks again Donna for sharing and I am looking forward to your next post “Blogging the right way”. For now, enjoy your week ahead.

    Be Blessed,

    Neamat
    Neamat Tawadrous recently posted..Thanksgiving And Gratitude Are The Secret To Success!!!My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:29 pm #

      Hi Neamat,

      Thank you so much for you input and kind words. I do believe that no matter how much passion and determination we put into things, God does play a huge role in the scheme of things.

      “Ask and you shall receive” I believe that!

      So happy this inspired you!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  23. Angela McCall
    Twitter:
    November 25, 2014 at 4:36 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    What a beautiful story! 🙂

    I don’t believe in luck either. I often say to people when I greet them, “You are very fortunate!” instead of “You are very lucky!” I think this “You are very lucky” statement just become a popular American expression that people say it without even thinking about it.

    There is blogging and “blogging the right way.” I’m anxious to hear about your next episode.

    BTW, I never knew you wrote a book. That’s wonderful. Is the book all about psychic? I’m curious. I knew that you used to have your own radio station. And in order to have that, you have to be very articulate and you are. One of my colleague then used to that also, hers was about “Handwriting Analysis and their Astrology.” I don’t believe in Astrology but I do believe in Handwriting Analysis because this is science and it is proven.

    So the “Mind Over Matter” is now ended. You don’t do this type of business offline anymore. But you have kept your clients still, right? I just wanna make sure I heard this right.

    What made you stop doing “Mind Over Matter” and went on blogging full time instead? and how did you implement the “concept of the $10 quickie” on your blogging business?

    Anyway…I do love your story. Thanks for sharing your life with us. You are sure a very wonderful story teller. You kept me going reading your post and kept the interest flowing. Keep it up. Great job!

    Wishing you a wonderful week…

    Until later,
    Angela
    Angela McCall recently posted..How to Create an Animoto VideoMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:27 pm #

      Hi Angela,

      Glad to know you enjoy my story. I’ve written two books but because they were self published way back, I don’t have copies anymore. One was about using your psychic (intuition) to find love, the other a workbook about creating love in your life.

      David did a book about handwriting analysis. He has done so much of that in the past, but that was way back then too, so there are none available.

      As for Mind over Matter, it’s still going strong. I left that place a while ago and my friend is holding down the fort. However I still have existing clients and will take on some new ones only by recommendation.

      As for how I implement the concept of the $10 quickie” in my blogging business, it was first done by a free procrastination product I did with an opt in. now it is a free “blogging fever” that precedes my product “blogging magic”

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  24. Gladys
    Twitter:
    November 25, 2014 at 2:56 pm #

    Hello Ms. Donna

    What a wonderful story about your humble beginnings and how your passion and determination helped you to succeed.

    I did not know that you had written books. Can we purchase them?

    My two cents….I have never believed in luck and I never will. LOL

    Ms. Donna I need to speak with you, can I send you my phone number?

    Your passion is contagious,

    Thank you for keeping it real and pushing us to rekindle the fire for our business.

    Gladys
    Gladys recently posted..Behind Close Doors What Do You Think about Yourself?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:21 pm #

      Hi Gladys,

      Yes I had written two books but as they were self published, they cannot be purchased anymore. Only one copy left for myself he he.

      Glad to know my passion is contagious.

      I’ll FB Message you my number

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  25. Susan Cooper
    Twitter:
    November 25, 2014 at 11:40 am #

    Hi Donna, What an interesting back story. One which I’m sure most people knew nothing about. While some people (probably a very rare few) are successful just because they got lucky in life, I believe your story more likely compares to the success stories of most. It takes a lot of darn hard work, determination, never giving up, stepping out on faith and just trusting in yourself. The people who just want to sit back and wait for success to happen, or complain when it doesn’t because they don’t want to put in the hard work for it are getting it all wrong. Hard work + Faith + Determination = Success. Congratulations on yours, it is well deserved!

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:18 pm #

      Hi Susan,

      Glad you liked my story! Not many knew these things about me…oh my there is so much more I could write a novel he he.

      But I wanted it to inspire others that success has nothing to do with luck. It is what you mentioned above Hard work, Faith and determination.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  26. HoudaK
    Twitter:
    November 25, 2014 at 5:45 am #

    Hi Donna. I agree with you totally; luck is not success and that is quite the trip you have gone through! I must say thumbs up for everything that you have done so far! This is really impressive and inspiring to say the least.

    In fact, your post inspired me to write about my journey too. I will talk about that on one of my next blog posts!

    Thanks for sharing this with the community.
    HoudaK recently posted..My Inspiration Of Today: What I Learned From Matt BacakMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:16 pm #

      Hi Houda,

      It is so great to know that this has inspired you! Sometimes writing our story to our readers is so great because there are some things they just never knew about us.

      Looking forward to your story!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  27. Ryan Biddulph
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 11:03 pm #

    Donna,

    I always knew you were lucky. Really. I mean, look at the above story; you just fell into place, magically, through luck. How could one explain this story? 🙂

    I mean, one COULD explain the story as a series of freeing yet uncomfortable as hell choices made by someone who had a burning desire to succeed. Nah….still seems lucky to me 🙂

    Donna you rock! I so enjoyed reading about how you become so lucky/successful/inspired, because doing so gives me a glimpse into your life. Success finds people who make freeing but uncomfortable decisions regularly.

    Moving in with the folks for 3 years must have been tough, but you always knew. You always did, so you did what you needed to do for you and your daughter.

    Brilliant idea with your first little shop. That 1 line quickie thing was uber clever. Nice little ad copy to reel in folks, and then, following up with your shop set up, well, you intuitively knew what to do 😉

    Love this Donna, your story is inspired. As for me, as you probably know, dumb luck brought me to Bali. Fiji, was just a roll of the dice. If only all of us could be so lucky 🙂

    Thanks Donna, and have a fun week!

    Ryan
    Ryan Biddulph recently posted..21 Simple Blogging TipsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:12 pm #

      Hi Ryan,

      I wanted to share a bit about myself because people wanted to know more about me and I was getting tired of being called lucky he he he.

      It is a strong mindset, a vision, and action with faith that helped with my success.

      Yes, moving in with my folks was very difficult. I could have thought I was a “loser” but instead, I turned it around. I was a victim in that marriage and became victor. Giving up all worldly possessions was a huge learning experience that only made me stronger.

      I’m glad you liked my story. Oh gosh there is so much more your wouldn’t believe it. he he he


      Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  28. Brittany Bullen
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 10:18 pm #

    Donna,

    I didn’t know you were a psychic, how fascinating! How did you come to discover that part of yourself? What an amazing story you’ve had, I feel inspired having read it! Thanks so much for sharing and I totally agree, it’s not about luck, it’s about a combination of talent, good decisions and hard work.

    As you’ll notice, I’ve been working toward getting some clarity in my mission as a business owner so I’ve decided to start putting some more efforts into the blog over at my NerdyGirl website, but I’m still struggling with knowing how to network and perhaps more importantly, whom to network with, to make that business happen. You seem to have always known just how to make things work… but I’m sure that’s just the way it seems.

    Thanks for the inspiration!
    Brittany
    Brittany Bullen recently posted..What a Social Media Manager Could Do For Your BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 27, 2014 at 6:08 pm #

      Hi Brittany,

      Yep, I was born one…long story lol. I don’t play it up online because I have too many clients in that part of my life 🙂

      I just had to share some of the things in my life because lately some are saying I’m a lucky gal. I don’t believe in luck, but rather, work, persistence and prayer.

      Keep on putting focus on NerdyGirl…I love that blog. As for networking, it doesn’t matter if you are in your niche or not. You have plenty of good stuff to share with us all.

      In order to make business happen, it is all about marketing education.

      Blessings to you!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  29. Marquita Herald
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 9:48 pm #

    I was aware of bits and piece of your background but this is the first time I’ve read about your journey and I want to thank you for sharing it with us Donna! As far as the notion of luck, I tend to prescribe to Oprah Winfrey’s definition – “Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.”

    Reading your story served as yet another reminder why it is so important not to compare ourselves to other people because focusing only on what someone has accomplished is like looking at the top of an ice burg. Many successful people work for years and overcome failure after failure to become “overnight” successes!

    Thank you for the great read for all that you do to inspire us day-after-day. 🙂
    Marquita Herald recently posted..Stop Waiting and Start Asking for What You Want From LifeMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 26, 2014 at 11:53 am #

      Hi Marquita,

      Actually, this is one of the reasons why I wanted to share a bit of my journey with my readers. I’m getting a lot of “your lucky Donna” lately and deemed it was time to share some of my journey.

      Thank you for writing Oprah’s definition of luck – “Luck is where preparation meets opportunity.” That is one quote that adds so much to this post. I thank you for that.

      Blessings,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  30. Adrienne
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 9:48 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Thank you for sharing your story with us and I agree, luck has nothing to do with it.

    I didn’t know you had written some books, I’m very impressed my dear. I learned something new here about you. How many did you end up writing altogether?

    I use to work with a guy that use to say our old boss was so lucky. He was not a very nice person but he always had the deals come through for him. I told our co-worker that luck had nothing to do with it. He was just very smart and confident that they would go through so I believe his passion for getting the deals done and his faith that they would is what made them all happen. He definitely worked at it.

    I’m always telling people that if you want anything in life you have to work for it. The work itself doesn’t even really have to be hard but you can’t expect things to happen overnight. They will fall into place though as they should and everything that happened for you definitely did as well.

    You and David are on the path you were meant to be on and now you get to help so many more people understand how this all works. They would be very luck to work with you Donna.

    Thanks again for sharing this with us and you have a wonderful week. Happy Thanksgiving.

    ~Adrienne
    Adrienne recently posted..How Blog Commenting Can Help Your Blog ThriveMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 26, 2014 at 11:33 am #

      Hi Adrienne,

      Answer to your question is 2 books. One to clear up what a psychic can do for a person, and what to watch out for when choosing one. It was geared toward love because that was the biggest problem people were having. We sold so many books, it was fantastic. The other was more of a work book of how to create love in your life. People loved that one!

      I was also mentioned in a book with my “Chaos Theory” that was written by 2 Psychologists and one Parapsychologist. That was a fun project!

      There was also radio shows I appeared on and I had one of my own for a year. What a learning curve that was lol.. But you know me, always up for a challenge. Local newspapers picked up my stories and I was blasted all over the place.

      I tell you Adrienne, it wasn’t easy, especially when I had to get up in front of a large audience and speak about Parapsychology, and all the other stuff, but I did it for one reason: My Business.

      It is amazing what things one will do for business sake!

      I did it all by leaps of faith and the attitude of just putting it out there, being me, and if someone liked it fine, if not…oh well!

      Others called me lucky…Guess that was easy to say because they didn’t have to put all that effort into their business.

      Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  31. Barbara Charles
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 9:38 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    First I want to say that success is not based on luck. Success is based on faith and hard work. Your whole journey showed that quite clearly. Every step of your journey was based on faith and it all paid off. It is not luck when someone continually and successfully meets their goals.

    Second thing I want to say, is that your story is phenomenal. Having that kind of faith is something most of us don’t have and therefore success is always a slip away.

    I am honored to know your wonderful story and so glad you shared it with us.

    Thank you for sharing.
    God bless,
    Barbara
    Barbara Charles recently posted..Best 3 Tools To Automate Your Tweets in TwitterMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 26, 2014 at 11:24 am #

      Hi Barbara,

      I thought it would be about time that I shared some personal stories about myself…this is but a few lol.

      This is the “fluff” of my journey and there’s so much more that I did have to overcome by sheer faith in myself and in God.

      I don’t believe in luck, I do think it is a poor excuse as a reaction to life events. However, I do believe in hard work, an open mind and determination to achieve success.

      I’m so happy that you liked my share!

      Be Blessed,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  32. Reginald Chan
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 8:10 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    I am a believer of luck (until a certain point). Let’s see it this way. If you are able to work hard towards your dream and you get the things done, that’s good. Lucky? Maybe.

    However if we do nothing and just hope for luck? That’s a pretty big no-no for me. At least try and then leave it to faith 🙂

    Great stuffs Donna!
    Reginald Chan recently posted..How To Develop A Winning Business Plan For Restaurant Owners?My Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 26, 2014 at 11:20 am #

      Hi Reginald,

      Well said! If one does believe in luck, we cannot just depend on that. We do have to put our energy into our tasks and goals and yes, have faith!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  33. Sylviane Nuccio
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 6:55 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    What a wonderful story that is yours. And how hard you’ve worked. I really admire you for that.

    Usually when people are successful at something, there are always some slackers to say that there’re lucky. You hear that all the time.

    At times some people have told me you’re lucky to speak all those languages, like they fell on my from the sky, right! As you said, I’m not lucky, I’ve learned them. Anyone can.

    Well, except for my native one, the other two took work and effort on my part. they didn’t just happen. And so it is for anything we acquire that didn’t simply fall on us from the sky.

    You know before I leave to Italy, I’m been thinking of consulting with you guys. so I may take you on one of those opportunities.

    I finally got serious on writing my book, by the way. My plan is to write about 1,000 word a day (5 days a week). In a month from now I’ll have about 20,000 and by the summer I could have a finished book, editing included. But I’m not going to do this one (the editing) myself, because this is big serious business book.

    Thanks for this great post and will share.
    Sylviane Nuccio recently posted..How You Can Build A Blog CommunityMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 25, 2014 at 3:56 pm #

      Hi Sylviane,

      It is so funny that people say you are “lucky” because you speak several languages. My gosh! If there is one thing that I seem to fail to do it is learning a different language. Believe me, I did try very hard with Italian. My grandparents used to teach me and we spoke it. I can understand it a little bit, but never could get it.

      It is probably how my brain works lol. Some things come easier for one person than for another.

      I agree that people that say “You are Lucky” is kind of a scapegoat because they don’t want to put time and effort into something.

      I’m so happy you are writing that book! Just contact us whenever you find you need help with it.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  34. Vivette Harris
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 3:59 pm #

    You are right on point Donna. Luck has nothing to do with success. I don’t believe in luck either.. I have faith, I make preparation, work hard and learn from my failures. Everything will fall into place at the right time.
    Vivette Harris recently posted..Online Network Marketing….. 5 Steps To Creating Automation in Your Network Marketing BusinessMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 25, 2014 at 3:52 pm #

      Hi Vivette,

      I get so man reactions by people saying how “lucky” I am. I don’t believe in it at all!! It is for the hard work, energy and focus I put into things. Then grateful to God for all I have received.

      Thank you for stopping by,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  35. Cararta
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 3:19 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Wow, what a resume! All of it proves that Work is the luck.

    Some people are “lucky” in that they are able to focus on what

    needs to be done and work and create the right things.

    Finding that Work road map is a problem for me.

    Hmmm. Do your readings unscramble a confused mind?

    Thank you for the share. Definitely something to thing about.

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 24, 2014 at 3:51 pm #

      He He He…no I don’t think I can unscramble a confused mind….

      If finding that “work road map” is a problem for you, I would suggest that you start focusing on other people in your niche. See what they are doing and how.

      Maybe you will come up with some ideas of your own. But beware..it takes a heck of a lot of time and patience to get there.

      Thanks for coming by,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  36. Sarah Arrow
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 3:19 pm #

    I love this Donna, especially your 7 minute quickies. I knew you were an intuitive, I didn’t know you did this as well. Anyone can be lucky once. Some are even lucky twice… but we both know luck had nothing to do with it, it’s was your skills and tenacity x
    Sarah Arrow recently posted..Blogging Fear: My niche is saturatedMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 24, 2014 at 3:49 pm #

      Hi Sarah,

      Just a little catchy phrase of that “7 minute quickie” received a lot of attention! It was a leap of faith, but did turn out to be a lucrative business….and still is. I still have that spot there and my friend is running it for years.

      No luck has nothing to do with it. It is a matter of determination and work!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  37. Tina
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 2:27 pm #

    Hi Donna,
    I think you are awesome and what a great post and I appreciate you sharing your journey with us.

    My husband and I have had this conversation with many people. We bought a building, right out of my graduating from massage therapy course, we set up my business and lived above the clinic. We made a nice profit on our building and it helped us build our dream home in Nevis. We left Toronto 10 years to move to his birthplace the island of Nevis in the Caribbean.

    Many people have said, how lucky we are. But we always reply by saying, “not lucky, but determined and we made it our priority. We made sacrifices, had many stressful nights and days and didn’t know how we were going to pay our bills but with perseverance and answered prayers we survived.”

    I think your story, has nothing to do with luck but perseverance, determination and it is a great success story.

    Continued success,
    tina

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 26, 2014 at 11:44 am #

      Hi Tina,

      Wow…thanks for sharing your story! People don’t understand what it is to purchase a building, make sacrifices, and have those sleepless nights of how to pay bills.

      I had several properties I did invest in and it was not a pretty picture at all. It was always a balancing act. People said I was so lucky to have those properties…but they were business decisions. So I know exactly where you are coming from.

      It is determination, going without, and having the perseverance to keep that building going until you can make that move.

      I love Toronto! I visit it frequently and it is one of my favorite cities. But your move from there to the Caribbean….Priceless!

      It takes so much responsibility to purchase a building….And you and your husband sure deserve what you accomplished.

      Thank you again for your share,

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  38. Chery Schmidt
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 2:02 pm #

    Hello Donna, Wow quite the journey my friend! I do agree that passion, determination and hard work are definitely the keys to success! Not Luck!

    I want to thank you for sharing your story with us, it is good to know a little about your back ground, I would never have guessed you where a psychic! Wow How Cool It That??

    Now I cannot say I have never really met one before HEHE It does sound like you have built a pretty exciting life for yourself and I do appreciate you sharing this with us here on your blog.

    Make it an Awesome New Week.. Chery :))
    Chery Schmidt recently posted..Restore Your Success Mindset With These Positive AffirmationsMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 24, 2014 at 3:17 pm #

      Hi Chery,

      He He… so now the “secret is unveiled” lol! I wanted to share a bit about myself and my journey to encourage others that they too, can get to be where they want.

      If I wrote all the stories I had it could be a book. But this is the short form in a nutshell. My hope is as people read this, they will see that it takes that fire inside I call passion and determination to achieve a goal.

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

  39. Harleena Singh
    Twitter:
    November 24, 2014 at 1:04 pm #

    Hi Donna,

    Lovely post indeed 🙂

    Yes, luck is not success, though some people do believe in luck based on their own experiences. I think each one has got his or her life’s experiences to share, and yours really has been such a roller coaster ride!

    But look at all that you have achieved, from the time you started, and the journey right through, to where you are now. It certainly has a LOT to do with your passion and determination – of a strong will power and determination to make things happen, and they do when you put ALL of yourself into something. As they say, the LOA starts working in your favor, isn’t it and that’s just happened with you I think. 🙂

    Lol…I loved the name you gave your Psychic Shop…sure to pull people. But with time, once the trust builds up, more and more people start connecting with you, which happens through our blogs. That’s just how we met, isn’t it?

    I am so glad you met David and the two of you got together – you deserve nothing but the best, in everything dear friend.

    Thanks for sharing this with us. Have a nice week ahead, and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours, well in advance. 🙂
    Harleena Singh recently posted..5 Destructive Ways To See Yourself As You Truly AreMy Profile

    • Donna Merrill
      Twitter:
      November 24, 2014 at 3:05 pm #

      Hi Harleena,

      I thought it about time to share a bit of “my story” with my readers. When I look back it is that determination factor that burns inside me that gets me through.

      Yes I do believe in the LOA. I am sure with all the visualizations and affirmations I have done over the years, the LOA treated me quite well and I’m grateful.

      I named that shop Mind over Matter because I studied parapsychology and when it comes to things of that nature, I do believe that what is in our mind can control what we create.

      Thank you for your kind words, and I sure will enjoy this Thanksgiving because we are keeping it low key…no traveling, no hosting, but rather see our kids via our phone and computer. I love having virtual holidays…I don’t have to fly anywhere!

      -Donna
      Donna Merrill recently posted..15 Reasons Why Blogging SucksMy Profile

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