In 2016, I embarked on a journey to understand the intricacies of selling on Amazon. My initial steps involved extensive research—reading every available article, blog post, and guide related to Amazon selling. For two years, from 2016 to 2018, I dedicated myself to learning as much as I could about the platform, its opportunities, and its challenges.

By 2018, I felt prepared to take my learning to the next level. I created an Amazon seller account, not to start selling immediately, but to gain access to Amazon Seller University. This resource was invaluable, offering deep insights into Amazon's selling ecosystem, best practices, and policies. From 2018 to 2021, I immersed myself in studying Amazon’s rules and regulations, ensuring I understood every detail to set a solid foundation for my future business.

Confident in my knowledge and preparation, I finally decided to start selling on Amazon in 2021. However, the experience was far from what I expected. Despite meticulously following Amazon’s guidelines and policies, I quickly realized that Amazon itself did not adhere strictly to its own rules. My seller account faced unfair deactivations, often with little to no explanation. It became apparent that Amazon’s primary focus was on maximizing its profits, often at the expense of its sellers. They would hold funds for extended periods, causing significant financial strain.

In conclusion, my journey with Amazon taught me a crucial lesson: while the platform offers extensive learning resources and opportunities, it does not always play by its own rules. For anyone considering selling on Amazon, my advice is to be cautious and prepared for potential unfair practices. The reality of selling on Amazon can be starkly different from the promising picture painted by its educational materials.