Turning the “Kick in the Gut” into Your Greatest Comeback: A Guide for Mature Beginners
From Ridicule to Resilience:
Why This “Internet Thingy” is My Greatest Investment
“You wasted money on that internet thingy again?”
If you’ve heard a version of those words from a spouse, a sibling, a child or a friend, you know the feeling. It’s a sharp, personal kick in the gut. It’s the sting of being judged by people who haven’t taken the time to understand the world you’re trying to build.
When I started this journey, I faced the same skepticism. People who couldn’t tell a browser from a search engine were suddenly experts on why my dreams were a “waste of money.” They condemned tools like AI without having any idea of its power to change lives.
Survival is in My DNA
In my About Sarah page, I share my journey of surviving cancer. When I faced that diagnosis, I learned something fundamental: I am a fighter.
Dealing with the negativity of others—the “nay-sayers” who see my business as a hobby and my education as an expense—honestly feels a bit like that health battle. But here is what I know: I survived cancer, so I can certainly survive a few skeptical comments.
I’ve rubbed shoulders with top marketers. I’ve seen what’s possible in this online world. My family may see a “waste of money,” but I see an investment in myself. This isn’t just a project; it’s my chance to build something I can finally be proud of. And I won’t let anyone’s negativity sabotage that.
The Hidden Cost of Negativity
It isn’t just “annoying” to be around negative people; it’s a health risk. Research shows that constant exposure to negativity can increase our risk of heart disease, stroke, and anxiety. As mature beginners, our mental and physical well-being is our most valuable asset. We cannot afford to let others’ narrow perspectives damage our health.
How to Protect Your Dream (and Your Peace)
So, how do we keep moving forward when the people closest to us are trying to pull us back?
Set Firm Boundaries: You don’t have to defend your “internet thingy” every time it’s brought up. It’s okay to say, “I’m not looking for feedback on my business right now, but I’d love to talk about [another topic].”
Practice “Empathy Without Absorption”: Understand that their negativity often comes from their own fear of change or lack of knowledge. Listen to them, but don’t let their words live in your head.
Don’t Try to “Fix” Them: You don’t need to convince them that AI is the future or that your course was worth the price. Let your success be the only proof you offer.
Know When to Walk Away: If a relationship is consistently toxic to your mental health, it’s okay to create distance. Your peace is worth more than their approval.
Just Get It Done
Motivation is the internal fire that keeps us going, but action is what keeps that fire fed. This project is my last chance to build something meaningful, and I want to help you do the same.
If you are ready to stop listening to the critics and start building your future, I’ve put together a series of guides to help you move from “beginner” to “builder” without the overwhelm:
[Just Get It Done]: Strategies to beat procrastination and the “kick in the gut.”
[The One-Page Plan: Simplifying Your Vision]: Because you don’t need a 50-page manual to start.
[AI Research & Evaluating]: Why AI isn’t a “scam,” but the most powerful assistant you’ll ever have.
You’ve survived life’s biggest challenges. Don’t let a little skepticism stop you now. Let’s get to work.