How do you measure Success?

Do you just count dollars or pounds or whatever your currency is? Obviously that's one goal and, to make enough money to be at least self-sufficient is something I'm sure we all desire.

But there are many other measures: all part of the long-term view, which will create a business or income that will sustain you and your family not only today, but also for many tomorrows.

I certainly think it an achievement to pay my bills from Internet earings alone. It took two solid years plus of online hard work to reach that stage. I'd hate to work out the hourly rate!

I don't want to put anyone off who is new to online business: I do want to impress upon you that, although results will be neither magic nor instant, results are possible.

So many people want it to happen overnight. It's partly society and it's partly that they just want to believe - and when it does not happen, a vast majority will have given up long before I began to see results. You have to have tenacity: be like a dog with a bone. Hang on and keep trying.

I live in the remotest valley on the north of the island of Tenerife, just off the African coast.

Besides my "technological toy room" that must appear as something from outer space to the locals - it's like stepping back into the 19th Century!

Which proves that "working the net" really can be done from absolutely anywhere, by anyone.

The cost of living here is cheap and the scenery inspirational: that's "richness" to me in itself. For that, I'll put up with the intermittent nature of Internet connections and electrical supplies that make it harder for me that most of you in "civilised locations". But that's what we do this for isn't it? To escape the 9-5 and all the other drudgery and slavery that goes with it. It's a great feeling, but it doesn't come on a plate, unfortunately.

You are impatient, you may even be hungry, but you cannot shortcut the need to spend time learning the culture, building your business and your business relationships.

The more so if your line wasn't business before the net. Mine was, with 20+ years as an accountant that has been of enormous help. The environment and tools may be different, but business is still the same thing it ever was. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. You still have to be business-like and strive at it to succeed.

Having got this far, you can be sure that I will not be sitting back and resting on my laurels. I have some great friends and associates on the net, some glowing testimonials, have plans for new and better things, more joint ventures ... I've only done that through learning, networking, making contacts, giving something of value and thinking, not just of money today, but of the long-term rewards and benefits.