It’s been 11 weeks today since Dad passed away, a reminder how life just carries on, I love you Dad!
Welcome to this week’s update on my journey to building a thriving affiliate marketing business while balancing health, family, and personal growth. This week has been packed with restarts, new directions, and meaningful connections. If you’re looking for motivation or insights into affiliate marketing, content creation, or personal development, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the highlights.
1. Restarting My Blog: A Fresh Perspective
For a while, my blog had been on the backburner. Life got busy, and the balance between my 9-to-5 job, family commitments, and growing my online business left little room for regular updates. But this week, I’ve decided to make my blog a priority again.
Why? Because this space is more than just a platform; it’s a way for me to document my journey, share insights, and, most importantly, connect with others who might be on a similar path. I’ve revamped my approach, focusing on sharing actionable advice, authentic stories, and lessons learned along the way.
What’s New on the Blog?
• A new to do spreadsheet to keep me consistent not only on blog topics but my affiliate marketing as a whole
• A focus on transparency—sharing not just wins but struggles and setbacks.
• A plan to feature guest contributors to bring fresh perspectives. This requires planning and will take some time.
I’m planning a very new and exciting new section to my blog site called, “Atif’s Academy”. This will be a special area where my audience will have access to the best tools, software, offers and services that I have collated over the last few years, ALL in one place!
If you’ve been following my blog for a while, thank you for your patience. I’m excited to bring you along for this new chapter.
2. Diving into TikTok Shop Creator Videos
This week, I officially stepped into the world of TikTok Shop as a content creator, and let me tell you—it’s been a ride! TikTok is an incredible platform with unmatched potential for reaching audiences, but it also comes with a steep learning curve. To this end I am studying TikTok shop under the supervision of my mento Dean Holland. He has devised a 6 week course on getting started on TikTok shop. He shares the secret formula for viral videos, which I am practicing. Is this something you would be interested to learn? Let me know in the comments.
My First Steps
• Research: I spent hours studying successful TikTok Shop creators to understand what works.
• Samples: I’ve started receiving product samples from brands, which makes creating authentic content easier. This is a blessing as it’s quite difficult to get free samples when you first start out. I have managed to get 2 free product samples os far, not bad for week 1.
• Experimentation: I created videos showcasing products in fun, engaging ways—everything from quick demos to humorous skits. Take a look at the Celtic Salt and 4 in 1 pen videos I made here.
The feedback has been encouraging. While I’m still figuring out my unique style, I can already see the power of TikTok in driving traffic and sales. I have also learnt that you need to make many videos maybe 15-20 of each product before you start seeing sales. Consistency, Consistency, Consistency!
Challenges Faced
• Staying consistent while balancing other responsibilities.
• Learning to grab attention in the first few seconds of a video. This is the key to TikTok video, not easy to do. Just have to keep trying.
This week, I also learned the importance of batch-creating content to stay ahead and keep the momentum going.
3. Adapting and Changing My Video Format
When I started creating TikTok videos, I focused on delivering information, but I quickly realised that TikTok is a platform where storytelling reigns supreme. People want to be entertained, inspired, and intrigued—all within a few seconds.
Changes I Made:
• Shorter Videos: My new videos are concise, with a strong hook in the first 2-3 seconds.
• Storytelling: Instead of just showcasing products, I weave them into relatable scenarios.
• Trends: By aligning with trending hashtags, I’ve noticed a boost in engagement.
The result? Better watch times and a noticeable uptick in follower interactions. It’s a reminder that staying flexible and willing to adapt is essential for success.
4. Getting Back to the Gym: Health is Wealth
One of my biggest wins this week has been returning to the gym. Health is a cornerstone of personal and professional success, and I’ve realised that my journey to building a successful business is deeply intertwined with my journey to a healthier lifestyle.
Progress So Far:
• I’ve been focusing on cardio training to improve overall fitness.
• I’m eating healthier, cutting back on sugar, and paying close attention to portion sizes.
I even have an idea for a new TikTok channel in this niche, I may start that this year! EXCITING.
But it hasn’t been easy. Finding time for the gym while juggling everything else is a challenge, and there are days when motivation runs low. What keeps me going is the understanding that every small step forward counts, whether it’s an extra rep at the gym or saying no to a sugary treat. (I always say yes!)
5. Connecting with People: The Power of Direct Conversations
Something magical happened this week: people started reaching out to me directly. Whether it was through TikTok, my blog, or personal connections, I had meaningful conversations with individuals eager to learn about affiliate marketing.
These discussions reminded me of the value of human connection. Sharing my journey, hearing their challenges, and offering actionable advice created a sense of community that I hadn’t fully appreciated before.
What We Talked About:
• How to get started with affiliate marketing.
• The mindset shifts required to succeed in this business.
• Balancing family, work, and personal growth while building a side hustle.
These moments of connection are the highlights of my week—they reinforce the idea that success isn’t just about personal wins but also about helping others achieve theirs. Also means that my email list is growing to about 455 people!! Image this time next year how many there could be.
6. Helping Others Start Their Affiliate Marketing Journey
Several people I connected with this week expressed a desire to start their own affiliate marketing businesses. They were eager but unsure of where to begin. I found myself stepping into the role of a mentor, sharing the lessons I’ve learned and the pitfalls to avoid.
Key Advice I Shared:
• Start with a niche you’re passionate about.
• Focus on building trust with your audience before trying to sell.
• Be patient—success doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s worth the wait.
Helping others start their journey has been incredibly rewarding and has reignited my own passion for affiliate marketing.
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This week has been all about growth, learning, and connection. Restarting my blog, diving into TikTok Shop, hitting the gym, and helping others has reminded me that every small effort adds up over time.
What’s one thing you’re restarting or reshaping in your life? Let me know in the comments or connect with me on social media. Let’s grow together!
Here’s to another week of progress and possibilities.
You can follow me on social media here using the icons at the end of this post or using this links page. It will be great to see you there.
The best way to keep in touch is by subscribing to my FREE Newsletter where you will get exclusive content and even more value to help you build your online business.
Until next time, take care.
Warm regards,
Atif
Hello Atif – As I said last week, I am not only glad you are back, but I am thrilled! Life sent you over a speed bump, but you did not hit a brick wall. Glad that you were able to take a break from things for a minute to get everything in order and I am so incredibly happy that you are now back to sharing your wisdom with us. I really mean it, there is a lot of wisdom packed in your blog posts. I have followed you and I have followed your journey on TikTok and you not only continue to improve but the fruits of your labor will produce results… I can just feel it. Thank you for sharing your journey with us and being an example to us that when life throws us many difficulties, we always have the opportunity to bounce back even stronger! Have a wonderful week, my friend!
Hi Ernie,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt comment—it truly means the world to me. You’ve been one of my biggest supporters, and I honestly couldn’t do this without you. Your encouragement and belief in my journey keep me going, even through the toughest moments.
I admire everything you’ve done so far and the positivity you bring to every interaction. Seeing you on TikTok again is fantastic—you’re proof that persistence and resilience pay off.
Your words about bouncing back stronger resonate deeply with me, and I’m grateful to have someone like you who truly understands the journey. Thank you for believing in me and for always cheering me on. Wishing you a fantastic week, my friend!
Gratefully,
Atif
This blog post is such a vibe—so much happening, and it’s all inspiring! First off, 11 weeks since your dad’s passing—I’m sure he’d be so proud of everything you’re accomplishing. 💙 It’s amazing how you’re channeling that love and memory into such meaningful work. The blog restart sounds like a game-changer—Atif’s Academy? YES, please! Can’t wait to check it out and see all those tools and resources you’ve been gathering.
Keep going and keep those TikTok videos coming, I love seeing them!
Sarah, Thank you so much for your kind and supportive words—they truly mean a lot to me! I’ve learned so much from you, and your journey continues to be such an inspiration. I’m trying my best to catch up with everything you’re doing—it’s incredible to see your energy and creativity in action.
Your words about my dad mean so much. It’s been a journey, but channeling his memory into this work has been deeply meaningful. I’m excited for what’s ahead with the blog restart and “Atif’s Academy,” and I can’t wait to share it all with you.
Thank you for your encouragement on the TikTok videos—I’ll definitely keep them coming! Grateful to have your support on this journey.
With gratitude,
Atif
Atif, I hear you on the sugary treats and I join you in making going to the gym a priority in 2025. Three times a week is my aim.
It’s great to see you get back into the swing of things. And in the midst of what AI can do for us, it truly is magical in connecting with people through direct conversations.
Keep on going with the growing, learning and connecting!
Robert,
Thank you for your kind words and for sharing your gym goal—three times a week is a fantastic aim! I’m with you on the challenge of cutting back on sugary treats, but it’s great to tackle these goals together.
You’re absolutely right about the magic of AI bringing us closer through genuine conversations. Here’s to growing, learning, and connecting in 2025 and beyond!
Gratefully,
Atif
Hi Atif,
Thank you for sharing such an inspiring update! It’s amazing to see how you’re juggling so much, your blog, TikTok journey, gym routine, and helping others, all while honoring your dad’s memory.
Restarting your blog with a fresh approach sounds like a great idea, especially with the new features like “Atif’s Academy.” I’m sure it’ll be a fantastic resource for your audience.
Your TikTok progress is impressive, and I love how you’re adapting your videos to focus on storytelling and trends. It’s a reminder that flexibility and learning as you go really make a difference.
I also admire your commitment to health, it’s not easy to find the balance, but you’re making it happen step by step. I’m excited to see what comes from your potential health-focused TikTok channel too!
Wishing you continued success in all your efforts. You’re doing great, keep it up!
Meredith
Hi Meredith,
Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words—they mean a lot to me! Restarting the blog with “Atif’s Academy” has been an exciting step, and I’m glad you see its potential as a resource.
Your support for my TikTok journey and focus on storytelling truly motivates me to keep improving. Balancing health with everything else has its challenges, but your encouragement reminds me that every small step matters.
Thank you for being so thoughtful and supportive—I truly appreciate it!
Gratefully,
Atif
Atif, this post is full of so much inspiration and realness—thank you for sharing your journey so openly! I love how you’ve embraced the “restart” mentality, not just in your business but also in your personal life, like getting back to the gym and prioritizing your health. It’s a reminder that growth, whether in affiliate marketing or in life, happens in layers and often requires a bit of reshaping along the way.
I’m curious, how do you stay motivated when juggling so many things at once? I’d love to hear any tips you have for staying focused during those moments when motivation feels low.
Wishing you all the best in this exciting new chapter! Can’t wait to follow along! 🙌
Hi Alison,
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words! It means the world to me that you found inspiration in my post. The “restart” mentality has been such a game-changer for me, and I’m learning every day how important it is to approach both personal and professional growth with flexibility and patience. You captured it perfectly—growth really does happen in layers, and each step forward often requires rethinking and adjusting along the way.
As for staying motivated while juggling so much, it’s not always easy, but a few things really help me. First, I try to remind myself of why I’m doing what I’m doing—whether it’s for my health, my family, or my goals. When motivation dips, I focus on small wins rather than big leaps. Even something as simple as ticking off a single task can reignite my momentum. And most importantly, I give myself grace when things don’t go as planned—it’s all part of the process.
Thank you again for your encouragement and for following along on this journey. Having support like yours makes all the difference. Wishing you the best as well, and I’m excited to continue sharing this path with you!
Gratefully,
Atif
Hi Atif, you made a comeback! Congratulations! You have refueled your enthusiasm and it shows! I remember all the times you took care of your dad as we were discussing our businesses on Zoom. Your family did everything they could for him. It’s a bittersweet memory, but what you were going through affected all of us, stirring up memories of our own challenges with our respective families.
Now we embark anew to another year. The impending Tik Tok ban is hard to swallow. And if Elon Musk buys it, we will see another right wing takeover like what happened on Twitter/X. I left X after being there a total of 18 years. In the beginning, it really was the Town Square. It’s a lesson on constant change and developing the ability to roll with it!
Hi Kate,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt comment and for always being such a steadfast supporter. Your words about those Zoom discussions and the times with my dad brought back a wave of emotions. It’s true—those were challenging moments, but they also shaped so much of who I am today. Knowing that it resonated with you and stirred memories of your own family experiences is a powerful reminder of how interconnected our journeys are.
You’re absolutely right—this year brings a mix of uncertainty and opportunity. The potential changes with TikTok are a stark reminder of how quickly the digital landscape evolves. Your decision to leave X after 18 years is a testament to standing by your values, even when it means letting go of something that was once so meaningful. It’s a lesson I’m taking to heart—adaptation and resilience are the keys to navigating these shifting tides.
I’m grateful to be on this journey with people like you who understand the balance of personal and professional growth. Here’s to embracing the new year, challenges and all, and continuing to learn and grow together!
With gratitude,
Atif
Hi Atif,
Thank you for sharing such a heartfelt and motivating update! I’m truly inspired by your journey and the way you’re balancing affiliate marketing with personal growth and health. It’s a testament to your determination and adaptability.
I love the idea of “Atif’s Academy” and how you plan to provide valuable resources to your audience. It’s refreshing to see your focus on transparency and authenticity, especially in a space where so many struggle. Your insights on transitioning to TikTok Shop content creation are incredibly relevant; storytelling truly makes a difference in engaging an audience.
It’s great to hear that you’re reconnecting with your health through the gym! Finding that balance between work and wellness is crucial, and every step counts, as you mentioned. Your willingness to mentor others starting their affiliate marketing journey is commendable and shows the importance of community and support in this field.
Keep up the fantastic work! I’m looking forward to seeing how “Atif’s Academy” unfolds and watching your continued growth in the affiliate marketing space. Here’s to new beginnings and the exciting road ahead!
The Best Is Yet To Come!
Ezequiel
Hi Ezequiel,
I can’t thank you enough for such a kind and thoughtful comment—it truly means a lot to me. Your words about balancing work, personal growth, and health struck a chord, as they perfectly encapsulate what I’m striving for.
The mention of storytelling and authenticity really reinforces the approach I want to take with this journey. It’s incredibly encouraging to know that you find value in the ideas I’ve shared, like providing meaningful resources and fostering a sense of community.
Your support and enthusiasm for this next step, especially with “Atif’s Academy,” give me even more motivation to keep pushing forward. It’s this type of encouragement that makes the journey worthwhile and reminds me that even small steps in the right direction can have a ripple effect.
Thank you for your encouragement and belief in what’s to come. It’s truly a gift to have people like you cheering me on. Here’s to embracing the journey and creating something meaningful together!
Gratefully,
Atif
Hi, Atif!
I, too, am so glad to see you back! Life can be so hard at times, and it is good to take a break. I’m sure your parents are proud of how you’re handling being the head of the family and learning your business skills for them. I think it would be great for you to start a fitness channel on TikTok! You’re so genuine in your approach; I’m sure it would help a lot of people to have your inspiration and to follow you as you persevere in getting healthier.
I’m excited to see the changes coming to your blog. Atif’s Academy sounds super! I’m looking forward to seeing all it includes! You have so much going on! I’m honored to be with you at this point in your journey!
Nakina
Hi Nakina,
Thank you so much for your kind and supportive words—they truly mean a lot to me! Life does have its challenges, but knowing that people like you are cheering me on makes the journey so much more meaningful.
By the way, your TikTok videos are amazing! You have such a natural way of connecting with your audience. I can see how much thought and effort you put into them, and it really shows. Keep up the fantastic work—you’re truly an inspiration!
I’m so glad you’re excited about the updates coming to my blog and Atif’s Academy. Your support means a lot to me, and I feel honoured to have you alongside me on this journey.
Thank you for believing in me, Nakina. Let’s keep inspiring and uplifting each other!
Warm regards,
Atif