My point, which may have been overlooked in the article, is that other people are creative and ingenious too. When starting out, you will invariably make mistakes that they didn’t, which will be compensated for your creative insights they didn’t have.

Elliot,

In the context I was using it, “financially independent” means that your business can fully support your expenses (i.e. you don’t need to work a second job). I’m not fully there yet, but I’ve come very close.

-Scott

ps – I noticed about two weeks ago your blog had a different look for a day or so. I’m not sure whether you were just experimenting, but for what it’s worth, I liked the look!!

The concept of asking someone who’s done it is often overlooked. However, I do want to clarify your use of the phrase “financially independent.”

Independent of what exactly? I know the term typically means not having to rely on an employer – however – with a blog… won’t you always be dependent on search engines, and of course, writing more content?

I’m nit-picking, of course, but I hope people understand it’s residual income that creates true financial independence and freedom.

Love your site – keep up the good work.

-Elliott

P.S. YOU are the next Steve Pavlina, my friend.

Good post Scott but I think you underestimate the power of ingenuity and creativity. For instance I believe Darren Rowse has over 15 different blogs. Something like that would surely have an impact on the 3-5 year number.

Reminds me of the analogy; life is like a journey. One knows what the final destination is and it’s not something people in general look forward to (unless they believe in a happy afterlife with harp stringing angels or 70 virgins per guy) , so better make sure one enjoys the trip.