Why not use cash? Or a debit/credit card?
Because I want to get bitcoins without going through an exchange, using another currency or mining. I think the only way is by providing a service or good. I am very new to all of this, but the way I see for bitcoin to move forward is for more services to accept it. If I can make cappuccinos and get bitcoins and then use those same bitcoins to buy more coffee beans I can increase the number of bitcoins I have without thinking about dollars. Someone will have to start accepting bitcoins for services and goods and keeping them and/or spending them to get other goods and services in bitcoins. Imo, buying and selling bitcoins with dollars isn't the way to go.
I really appreciate all the clarification on the fees, I've done my research and yes, it's not possible right now. I will read up on Lightning Network.
Don't let misinformation be the death of your knowledge into cryptocurrency. Lightning Network is NOT the end all be all solution to the scaling issues that we are currently experiencing. It requires a second layer to the Blockchain, and stops becoming a decentralized peer-to-peer platform at that point. We have to put our full trust in the off-chain network, which means we will have to put our trust in the only organization types that can bankroll such a large payment channel: the banks.
The best solution would be to accept alternative currencies, such as Bitcoin Cash or Ethereum. The only challenges you'll begin facing are the lack of users who hold any of the alts that you decide to accept as payment.
If I may, the best option for you is to start putting cash aside from your sales, and after taking out your profits and operational budget or whatever, use the remainder to exchange directly with someone for Bitcoin. Use
www.localbitcoins.com to find a reputable seller, and start doing this on a weekly/monthly basis. There are plenty of reputable sellers on LBC, and you may even begin to develop a stronger relationship where you can create a schedule with an individual so you can bypass all the fees incurred by LBC.
Think creatively, and you'll be able to get into Bitcoin in no time. It's just a matter of finding an alternative solution to the ones you've mentioned wanting to avoid. If you have any more questions, feel free to PM me, and I'll be more than willing to try and help you come up with ways for you to get into the game.
Cheers, and welcome to Bitcoin.
Joe