Let me just come out and say it: I’m not one of those creators with millions of YouTube views or thousands rolling in from affiliate links. I’m not lounging on a beach collecting “passive income” checks from an online course. But I am making money online—and I’ve made six figures doing it. Want to know how?
Keep reading. Because I’m going to walk you through exactly what’s been working (and what hasn’t), and it’s probably not what you expect.
I Tried Everything (And I Mean Everything)
Let’s rewind. Like a lot of you, I went through the full buffet of online business ideas. Digital products, Etsy shops, eBooks, Pinterest strategies, YouTube, AI tools—you name it, I’ve dabbled in it.
Some things worked a little. Most things didn’t work consistently. But two things really brought in the money: freelancing and selling custom jewelry.
Seasonal Jewelry Sales: My Unexpected Star
This one surprises people, but my biggest money maker? It’s selling custom name necklaces and other meaningful jewelry. Yup. I started doing this around major holidays like Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Valentine’s Day, and it exploded.
Why? Because people want personalized gifts—something with meaning. And that’s what I offered. I even wrapped and delivered them myself locally!
It all started when folks kept asking where I got my jewelry from. I posted some of my pieces on Facebook, realized my posts weren’t getting far, so I boosted them for a few dollars. And boom—I got flooded with messages.
That one small boost sold out my entire Christmas collection. I’m talking real orders, real people, real money.
Freelancing: The Foundation of My Online Income
Before the jewelry came along, I was doing social media freelancing. After I got laid off, I gave myself a couple months to figure things out. I started offering content creation and feed management for local businesses.
It wasn’t fancy. But it was consistent, and more importantly, fast. Freelancing pays faster than waiting around for a digital product to sell. Some of my clients have been with me for years.
Is it always fun? Not really. But it’s reliable.
What About Digital Products?
Yes, I do sell digital products. I’ve got PLR (Private Label Rights) templates like planners and eBook designs over on my site InstantRights.com. I also created a Faceless Instagram Strategy eBook.
They don’t fly off the shelves daily, but I make sales consistently—especially when new entrepreneurs are looking to start their shops.
Coaching & Consulting
Another small but steady stream: one-on-one coaching. People reach out when they need help with their business ideas or digital products, and we set up a session.
It’s not a goldmine, but it adds up. It also reminds me that what I know is valuable, even when I don’t always feel like an expert.
The Not-So-Glamorous Truth About Affiliate Marketing
Here’s the honest truth: I’ve made less than $100 with affiliate marketing. I’ve promoted AI tools and linked them in my videos—but most people just want the free info. They don’t click.
So no, I don’t chase affiliate deals. If I share a tool or product, it’s because I actually think it’ll help you. Not because I’m trying to earn a commission.
Want to see someone who’s crushing Pinterest without a blog? Check this out: How I’m Selling Digital Products on Pinterest Without a Blog
WhatsApp & Facebook: My Favorite Low-Tech Strategy
Here’s where things get juicy. My easiest sales? Came from WhatsApp and Facebook.
No fancy funnel. No website. Just real photos and real conversations.
I would post jewelry photos on my Facebook and WhatsApp Status and talk to people. That personal connection made all the difference. I broke it all down in this eBook: Make Sales in Minutes Using WhatsApp
Seriously, it walks you through everything—step by step.
My #1 Tip: Start Small and Keep It Simple
One product. One post. One platform.
Don’t wait until everything is perfect. I made sales with just my phone, some photos, and a conversation.
A lot of people mess up by trying to do too much at once. (And yes, I still struggle with that too.)
So if you’re feeling overwhelmed? Start tiny.
Let’s Talk About the Hard Parts
Most creators don’t talk about this, but I will.
I’ve had clients ghost me. I’ve had people say they couldn’t afford my rates—then go hire an agency. I’ve poured hours into giving free advice only for people to disappear.
It can feel draining. Like you’re giving everything and not being taken seriously. It’s frustrating.
But on the flip side? I get to be there for my kids. I can pick them up from school, help with homework, take them to activities—all things I couldn’t do when I worked a 9–5.
So the trade-off? Worth it.
What You Can Do Right Now
If you’re trying to make this work for yourself, here’s where to begin:
- Start with ONE offer
- Choose ONE place to show up (Facebook? WhatsApp?)
- Use your own photos
- Talk to people—don’t just post and hope
And if you’re curious about how I turned WhatsApp into a real sales machine, grab my eBook: Make Sales in Minutes Using WhatsApp
If you prefer to watch rather than read — or you just want to hear the full story in my own words — I’ve got you covered. I recorded a video breaking everything down, from freelancing to selling jewelry and making real sales with just WhatsApp and Facebook.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
I’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment below and tell me how you’re making money online—or what you’re trying out. Let’s be real with each other about what works and what doesn’t.
This journey isn’t all glam, but it is possible.
You got this. Let’s figure it out—one simple step at a time.
Related Reading:
- How I’m Selling Digital Products on Pinterest Without a Blog
- Make Sales in Minutes Using WhatsApp eBook
This may not be the “scalable passive income” everyone’s chasing—but it’s real. It’s cash-in-hand. And it works on your terms.
You’ve got this! And guess what—your hustle deserves to be exactly you.
