Definitely, don’t listen to them.

I'm in the same shoes you are and I'm looking for sponsors also.

I listened to some of these gurus (including a few people on BP) about acquiring doors to have "financial freedom" and bought 2 Class C properties in Indianapolis, not hating the city just my choice of property purchases - that cash flow on paper has turned out to be -$300 to -$500 a month.

That said, if you were in my shoes would you advise looking into syndications or trying to find deals to buy and hold myself?

To learn creative financing, you'll want to get involved with your local REIAs, listen to podcasts, follow people who are educators on creative financing, etc. 

Also, never listen to the sales people on their saving projection, I've yet see someone who does a good job of data analytics to truly project it correctly.

I’ve educated myself with books like Rich Dad Poor Dad and real estate podcasts, and I know I’ll succeed.I’d love advice from others who’ve been in my shoes: Is it okay to start investing in a different area if one strategy isn’t working?

You are listening on these calls to find why they are selling, and what value you can provide to close the dealGino

We would recommend just listening to some podcasts / Youtube or jumping on FB and looking for Note Groups. 

Been listening to BP podcasts for years and talking about real estate for years.