Tag: Mazlan Abbas

My 2023 Medium Journey: Growth, Strategies and Reflections

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

As the year 2023 comes to a close, I reflect on my journey as a writer on Medium.

It’s been a significant year for me, especially since I’ve been a part of the Medium community since December 2015.

However, 2023 is a year of personal growth, strategic learning, and rewarding achievements.

Below, I will share three tips that significantly impacted my earnings in December 2023.

The year 2023 Screenshot of Author’s Audience

Consistent Writing and Overcoming Limitations

Throughout 2023, my commitment to consistently publishing articles was unwavering.

Despite starting my writing journey on Medium in late 2015, this year marked a new level of dedication and a significant improvement.

One challenge I faced was the limitations imposed by my free subscription.

I often encountered intriguing articles I couldn’t fully access, leaving me missing valuable insights and learning opportunities.

The year 2023 Screenshot of Author’s Earnings

The Leap of Faith

On September 25, 2023, I decided to take a leap of faith.

I subscribed to Medium’s paid plan with a clear objective: to offset the $5 monthly subscription fee through my writing earnings.

View at Medium.com

This decision wasn’t made lightly, as I was uncertain whether the investment would be worth it.

However, the results were encouraging.

By October, I had earned $8.63 more than the subscription fee. I maintained this momentum in November, reaching a slightly lower at $6.89.

The year 2023 Screenshot of Author’s Earnings

Setting Higher Goals

Emboldened by these tiny successes, I set a higher target for December: to earn at least $50, enough to cover a year’s subscription.

I surpassed this goal to my delight, ending the month with $55.01 in earnings.

This achievement was not just a fluke but a testament to the effectiveness of the strategies I had learned and implemented.

Strategies for Success

Engagement: Key to Growth

One of the strategies that significantly contributed to my success was engagement.

Throughout the year, I emphasized the importance of interactions – follows, claps, highlights, comments, and replies.

As I’ve shared in previous articles, this level of engagement can significantly impact your visibility and connection with the audience.

View at Medium.com

It’s a time-consuming endeavor but undeniably fruitful.

Captivating Headlines

Another change I implemented was in crafting my article headlines.

Moving away from straightforward, potentially dull titles, I focused on making them more attractive and engaging.

This minor tweak made a noticeable difference in attracting readers.

Understanding Audience Preferences

I also observed that articles on Medium offering tips about writing attracted more readers.

While I write about various topics, including entrepreneurship, it was clear that insights about the Medium platform resonated more with the audience.

Sharing my experiences and journey as a Medium writer was more impactful than other topics.

Gratitude and Hope for the Future

As I look forward to 2024, I’m filled with optimism and appreciation.

My experience on Medium this year has been financially rewarding and immensely enriching.

I extend my heartfelt thanks to all the authors who have shared their wisdom on audience engagement and article monetization.

Their insights have been instrumental in my growth as a writer.

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

My 2023 journey on Medium has been a blend of consistent effort, strategic changes, and learning from the community.

It reinforces the belief that turning your passion for writing into a rewarding endeavor with dedication and the right approach is possible.

Let’s hope that 2024 will be an even more successful year for all of us in the Medium community!

“Think” in 15 Ways

Think innovatively, lead change.

Think strategically, overcome challenges.

Think persistently, achieve goals.

Think boldly, disrupt markets.

Think creatively, find solutions.

Think analytically, make informed decisions.

Think adaptively, navigate trends.

Think collaboratively, build networks.

Think globally, act locally.

Think ahead, stay ahead.

Think resiliently, bounce back stronger.

Think purposefully, create impact.

Think ambitiously, set new standards.

Think efficiently, maximize resources.

Think passionately, inspire teams.

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On the Brink of the 1,000 Followers – Can I Achieve This Before the Year 2024 Begins?

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

I am short of another milestone – to reach my 1,000 followers target!

A Look Back at Eight Years

As the clock ticks down to the New Year 2024, I find myself in an exciting yet slightly nerve-wracking position.

I’m just 23 followers short of reaching a significant milestone in my blogging journey: 1,000 followers.

Author’s Snapshot on Dec. 31, 2021

This goal, which once seemed like a distant dream, is now tantalizingly close.

Reflecting on the past eight years, my audience consistently hovered around 200 followers. Despite my efforts, breaking out of this range felt like an insurmountable task.

That was until a pivotal moment at the end of September 2023, which marked my entry into the Medium Partner Program.

A Turning Point with Medium

Joining Medium was like opening a door to a world brimming with insightful writing tips and a vibrant community of writers.

The platform gave me access to a wealth of knowledge, and I eagerly dived in.

I began implementing the tips and tricks I learned from other successful Medium writers, and the results were almost immediate.

My initial target was modest: gain at least 5 new followers each day.

However, to my surprise and delight, this number soon doubled to 10 followers daily. This growth, I believe, stemmed from my active engagement within the Medium community.

I spent considerable time reading articles by other writers, leaving thoughtful comments, and following others in similar niches.

This expanded my network and enriched my understanding of what resonates with readers.

The Final Push

As of today, I stand 23 followers short of my goal. It’s a mix of excitement and uncertainty.

Will I hit the 1,000 mark before the year ends? It’s hard to say, but one thing is sure: January 2024 looks promising.

The prospect of reaching this milestone fills me with a sense of achievement and anticipation.

The Value of the Medium Partner Program

I cannot overstate the value of joining the Medium Partner Program, particularly the paid subscription.

It has been instrumental in my growth as a writer.

The unlimited access to the collective wisdom of other Medium writers has been a game changer.

It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the growth journey and the community that supports and inspires you along the way.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope

As I stand on the cusp of this milestone, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my old and new followers.

Your support and engagement have been the driving force behind my journey.

My advice to those still contemplating whether to join platforms like Medium is simple: leap.

The benefits, both in terms of personal growth and audience engagement, are well worth it.

Happy New Year to all of you!

Here’s to reaching new heights, not just in follower count but in the quality of connections and content we create.

Whether I reach the 1,000 mark now or a bit later, the journey has been incredible, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.

[Update: 1/1/2024]

Surprise! Surprise!

When I woke up this morning and checked my profile… yes! It has reached 1K target!

10 Years of Lessons as a UTM Lecturer: Insights and Growth

A Reflection – The Early Days of My Career

Reflecting on a decade of experience as a lecturer at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), I’ve gleaned invaluable insights into the art of teaching and connecting with students.

This journey has not only honed my academic skills but has also been a personal growth experience, shaping me into a more confident and impactful educator.

Understanding Students’ Needs

Initially, I perceived teaching as a straightforward transfer of knowledge.

However, I quickly realized that students yearn for more than just information; they seek engagement, inspiration, and real-world application.

Adapting my teaching methods to meet these needs was a transformative step in my career.

Engagement Strategies

To captivate students’ attention, I learned the importance of interactive and relatable content.

Techniques like group discussions, real-life examples, and incorporating technology made my lectures more appealing.

This approach not only made the classes more enjoyable but also facilitated deeper understanding.

Knowledge and Respect

A crucial lesson was the importance of being well-prepared and knowledgeable.

Students respect lecturers who display a deep understanding of their subject.

This respect became a powerful tool in creating a conducive learning environment, where students felt more inclined to participate and engage.

Confidence in Public Speaking

Regular lectures served as a training ground for public speaking.

Over time, this practice built my confidence, enabling me to present effectively at international conferences.

The ability to convey ideas clearly and confidently is an invaluable skill I acquired through my teaching journey.

Research and Development

My role as a lecturer extended beyond the classroom.

Conducting in-depth research and publishing papers kept me at the forefront of my field, benefiting both my students and my professional growth.

This aspect of my job has been particularly fulfilling, contributing to the broader academic community.

Building Lasting Relationships

Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of my tenure has been the relationships formed with students.

Many have become friends, colleagues, or even clients, often reminding me of the impact I had during their university days.

This has been a profound reminder of the lasting influence educators have on their students’ lives.

Conclusion

As I reflect on these 10 years, I realize how this journey has been as much about my own learning as it has been about teaching others.

These lessons have not only made me a better lecturer but have also enriched my life in countless ways.

At UTM, I learned that being an educator is about inspiring, connecting, and continuously evolving, both personally and professionally.

I Almost Give Up Writing on Medium But Then Things Changed

It’s a familiar story for many writers on platforms like Medium: you start with high hopes, pouring your heart and soul into your articles, only to find that no one seems to be reading them.

This was my story, too.

I remember staring at the screen, the view counts stubbornly stuck at zero, the comment section desolate.

It’s disheartening, to say the least. But here’s why giving up isn’t the answer.

The Initial Struggle

I began my writing journey with enthusiasm.

My focus was on sharing my experiences as an entrepreneur, a topic close to my heart.

Yet, despite posting daily, even multiple times a day, the silence from the audience was deafening.

Not a single comment or clap. It was as if my words were disappearing into a void.

Searching for Answers

Why were some writers gaining hundreds of followers rapidly while my articles languished unnoticed?

I watched as others’ articles were boosted, wondering why mine weren’t getting any traction. The frustration was palpable.

I checked my traffic statistics obsessively, but nothing seemed to change.

The Turning Point

Before I allowed despair to take over, I decided to step back and analyze.

What were successful writers doing that I wasn’t? I read other articles, trying to understand the secret to their engagement and visibility.

This period of learning and reflection was crucial. It led me to implement several strategies that would eventually change my writing journey.

Implementing New Strategies

1. Writing with Emotion:

Instead of mechanically churning out content, I started to infuse my writing with personal stories and emotions.

I shared my entrepreneurial journey, not just as a series of events, but as a narrative filled with my hopes, challenges, and learnings.

2. Exploring New Niches:

I ventured beyond entrepreneurship, dabbling in topics like personal experiences and progress reports on Medium itself.

To my surprise, these new topics resonated with readers and brought in more engagement.

3. Crafting Better Headlines:

Recognizing my weakness in creating catchy headlines, I studied other authors and experimented with different styles.

The impact was immediate.

Attractive headlines drew more readers to my articles.

4. Short Bite Articles:

I learned that brevity can be powerful.

Short, concise sentences made my articles more accessible and emotionally impactful.

People seemed to appreciate these bite-sized insights over dense, fact-heavy content.

5. Engaging with Readers:

By involving readers through questions and prompts for feedback, I opened a channel for interaction.

This not only increased engagement but also built a community around my writing.

6. Aiming for Longer Read Times:

Understanding the importance of read time for monetization, I focused on creating content that would keep readers engaged beyond the typical 30-second skim.

It was about finding the sweet spot where depth meets accessibility.

The Results

The results were encouraging.

My views, follower count, and overall engagement began to climb.

I was reaching people, and more importantly, they were responding.

This was the moment I knew I had to persist with my writing on Medium.

Lessons Learned

Persistence is Key:

Success in writing, as in any field, requires persistence.

It’s about showing up, day after day, even when it feels like no one is listening.

Adapt and Grow:

Being open to change and willing to adapt your strategies is crucial.

What works for one writer may not work for another, but there are always new approaches to explore.

The Power of Community:

Engaging with other writers and readers is not just about increasing views.

It’s about building relationships and learning from each other.

Quality Over Quantity:

While it’s important to be consistent, the quality of your content is what ultimately creates value for your readers.

Moving Forward

As I look ahead, I’m filled with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.

I’ve learned that writing is not just about putting words on a page; it’s about connecting with others, sharing experiences, and growing both as a writer and as a person.

Conclusion

To those who feel unseen in their writing journey, remember: every writer has been where you are.

The key is to not give up.

Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep believing in the power of your words.

Your audience is out there, and one day, they will find you.

In this article, I’ve shared my personal journey of overcoming the challenges of writing when it felt like no one was reading.

Through perseverance, adaptability, and a willingness to engage with the community, I found my voice and audience, proving that persistence in writing can indeed pay off.

Image created using Midjourney by Author.

A Writer’s Poem As We Enter Year 2024

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey

In Twenty-Twenty-Four, a Dream Unfurls

In the heart of the year, a dream takes flight, 
A writer’s journey, in the soft moonlight. 
Twenty-Twenty-Four, a canvas new, 
A story begins, painted in hues true.

Words dance like leaves in a gentle breeze, 
Capturing whispers, the soul to please. 
Through the pen flows a river deep, 
Where thoughts and dreams from shadows leap.

In pages bound by hope and light, 
A writer’s tale shines ever bright. 
In every line, a world unfurls, 
A tapestry of dreams, in swirls.

Each word a step on a path so wide, 
With passion as the ever-glowing guide. 
The ink, a friend, in the quiet night, 
Illuminates thoughts, brings dreams to sight.

In Twenty-Twenty-Four, the story’s told, 
Of a heart brave, and a spirit bold. 
A writer’s journey, from dawn to dusk, 
In words that whisper, in a world so lush.

Embrace the call of the muse’s song, 
For in your heart, it’s been all along. 
In Twenty-Twenty-Four, let your story soar, 
A writer’s dream, alive forevermore.

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey

Disclaimer: The poem above is written with the help of AI.

If you like to read my blog, check out Mazlan Abbas Blog or of you would like to download my eBooks, get them from here.

Tripling My Medium December Earnings: When I Implement These Amazing Things

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

December earnings have taken me by surprise!

Let me take you on a little journey that led me to triple my Medium earnings in just one magical month, December.

You see, my earnings took a nosedive back in November despite my relentless daily publishing.

Baffling, right? But as they say, necessity is the mother of invention.

So, I rolled up my sleeves and revamped my strategy.

Want to know how I turned things around?

Buckle up because here we go!

My December 2023 Earnings
The constant engagement has a big impact on the increase in views.

1. Building a Vibrant Network: Following Active Medium Writers

First things first, I decided to expand my network aggressively.

But this wasn’t about mindlessly hitting the ‘Follow’ button.

My focus was on active Medium writers – the ones who regularly engaged with recent articles.

Imagine Medium as a buzzing beehive; I wanted to connect with the busiest bees who make the most honey.

This approach had a simple yet powerful logic: I was setting the stage for meaningful exchanges by connecting with active members.

It’s like walking into a party and mingling with the liveliest groups.

This amplified my presence and ensured a dynamic and reciprocal network.

2. Engaging on a Deeper Level: Starting Conversations, Not Just Comments

My second move was to level up my engagement game.

On Medium, your worth isn’t just measured in words; it’s also in the connections you forge.

So, instead of just dropping comments here and there, I started initiating conversations.

Picture this: someone drops a thoughtful comment on your article.

Instead of a simple ‘Thanks,’ I dove into a full-fledged conversation, discussing their views, sharing insights, and sometimes, just having a friendly chat.

This wasn’t just about being polite but building a community.

People gravitate towards those who value their input.

It’s like creating a cozy corner in the vast world of the internet where every voice matters.

3. A Gesture of Appreciation: Clapping for Comments

Next up, I embraced the power of appreciation – through claps.

On Medium, claps are more than just a virtual pat on the back; they are a currency of gratitude.

Whenever someone left a comment, I gave them a round of applause.

It’s a small gesture, but it speaks volumes. It says, “I see you, hear you, and appreciate you.”

This simple act of acknowledgment can turn a casual reader into a loyal follower.

It’s about creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and appreciation, a community where everyone feels valued.

Beyond Strategy: Continuous Improvement and Crafting Catchy Headlines

But let’s not forget the backbone of any successful Medium profile: great content.

Alongside my networking and engagement strategies, I improved my writing.

I experimented with styles, dabbled in different genres, and fine-tuned my voice.

Every article was a new adventure, a new story to tell.

And headlines?

Oh, they became my secret weapon. A catchy headline is like a flashy signboard that invites people into your world.

I spent hours crafting headlines that were intriguing, witty, and impossible to scroll past.

The Game-Changing Impact

So, what was the result of all this hustling?

My Medium profile didn’t just grow; it exploded.

My followers multiplied, my views skyrocketed, and my earnings tripled.

It felt like striking gold in the digital world.

This wasn’t just about the money, though. It was a validation of the power of community and engagement on Medium.

I created a ripple effect that extended far beyond my expectations by focusing on active networking, deepening conversations, showing genuine appreciation, and continuously upping my content game.

A Recipe for Success

Here’s the deal: success on Medium, or any platform, isn’t just about what you write.

It’s about how you connect with your audience, how you engage with your peers, and how you keep evolving as a writer.

The strategies I used might seem straightforward, but trust me, they’re like hidden gems.

They can transform your presence from just another profile into a thriving community hub.

Remember, every follower, every clap, and every comment is a step toward building a loyal and engaged audience.

Treat these interactions not as metrics but as opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.

The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it – my tale of turning the tides on Medium in December.

It’s a story of resilience, strategy, and a lot of heart.

If you want to boost your presence and earnings on Medium, why not try these strategies?

Who knows, you might find yourself writing your own success story soon!

And remember, in the world of content creation, your greatest asset is your unique voice and your willingness to connect.

It’s not just about reaching the destination; it’s about the experiences, the connections, and the growth you encounter along the way.

Embracing the Journey

As you embark on this path, remember that every writer’s journey is unique.

What worked for me might need some tweaking to fit your style, and that’s perfectly okay.

Experiment, adapt, and find your rhythm. Medium isn’t just a platform; it’s a canvas, and you’re the artist.

Paint it with your words, your interactions, and your passion.

A Few Parting Tips

Here are a few nuggets of wisdom I picked up along the way:

  • Be Authentic: People can spot inauthenticity from miles away. Be genuine in your interactions and your writing. Your authenticity is your trademark.
  • Stay Consistent: Whether it’s your writing style, your posting schedule, or your engagement, consistency is key. It builds trust and establishes your presence.
  • Keep Learning: The digital world is ever-evolving. Stay curious, keep learning, and adapt to new trends and algorithms. But always maintain your essence in the process.
  • Value Every Interaction: Value every interaction, from a simple clap to a detailed comment. These are the building blocks of your community.
  • Have Fun: Last but not least, have fun with it. Writing is a creative process; the moment it feels like a chore, it’s time to take a step back and reevaluate.

In Conclusion

Tripling my Medium earnings in December was a milestone, but the real achievement was the journey that led me there.

The connections I made, the conversations I had, and the personal growth I experienced were priceless.

So, go ahead, give these strategies a try, and embark on your Medium adventure.

Who knows where the journey will take you, but one thing is certain – it will be a ride!

Happy writing, and here’s to a flourishing journey on Medium!

My Life Before TikTok That Takes an Unexpected Turn

Photo by Eyestetix Studio on Unsplash

My journey as a content creator has mirrored these changes, adapting and growing with each new turn.

Before TikTok captured the zeitgeist of our times, YouTube was my canvas, a space where I painted my creative expressions.

This adventure took off with the creation of several YouTube channels, each linked to a unique Gmail account and dedicated to a distinct theme, like vibrant colors in a kaleidoscope.

These channels spanned a wide array of subjects, from the cutting-edge buzz of the latest tech gadgets to the wanderlust of travel adventures, intimate personal vlogs, and deep dives into the world of entrepreneurship and technology.

This variety in content was an exploration of my multiple interests and a bridge to connect with a diverse audience, each with their unique tastes and preferences.

Remarkably, most of these channels are still thriving, standing as monuments to their continued relevance and my dedication to keeping them alive — a stark contrast to the ephemeral nature of digital content we often saw a decade ago.

More recently, I’ve poured my heart into one personal YouTube channel while simultaneously steering the ship for other business-related media ventures, stories of which I’m eager to unfold soon.

One channel, in particular, resonates with me deeply. Launched 13 years ago, it was a labor of love from my fascination with electronic gadgets.

‘My Gadget’ became a beacon in the tech world, offering the latest news, how-to guides, and insights, particularly for Android and iOS users.

It was an exciting time, coinciding with significant technological breakthroughs in smartphones and tablets.

As the world welcomed iPhones and Android devices, I immersed myself and shared every discovery and insight with my audience.

My engagement went beyond mere reviews; I plunged into the heart of these devices. Jailbreaking iPhones to explore new apps became a staple on my channel, captivating my tech-hungry viewers.

As my journey expanded, so did the scope of my content.

Travel soon wove its way into my narrative, allowing me to share the world’s beauty through my lens, adding a rich, vibrant layer to my digital collection.

The birth of my startup, called Favoriot, marked a new era in my life and, consequently, in my content journey.

This venture opened doors to opportunities like interviews and TV appearances, enriching my content with tech talks and adding a new depth to my digital storytelling.

Juggling content creation across various platforms was a colossal task, demanding time, meticulous editing, and a never-ending flow of creative ideas.

Eventually, I embraced a more natural, spontaneous approach to video posting, lightening the editing burden and bringing a genuine, relatable touch to my work.

As the digital landscape continued to transform, so did my methods of connecting with my audience.

Podcasting emerged as the new frontier, and I set sail in this exciting direction, eager to open another chapter of connection with my audience.

I look forward to sharing this new journey, filled with unique stories and experiences, soon.

Reflecting on this digital odyssey, I’m awed by the incredible transformation of technology and social media and how they’ve reshaped our ways of creating, consuming, and sharing content.

From the early days of YouTube to the dynamic world of TikTok and the emerging realm of podcasting, my journey has been a testament to learning, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of passion.

As we welcome the New Year, I extend my warmest wishes to all. Happy reading, and a joyous New Year! I invite you to join me as we continue to navigate and share in this ever-changing world of digital content creation.

https://www.youtube.com/@MazlanAbbasMyGadget

I am also an author of several books, which you can check out here.

And also my blog here.

My Writing Dilemma: Balancing Authenticity with AI Assistance

Today, AI-driven content creation is on the rise, writers like me are grappling with a fundamental question: Can artificial intelligence coexist with the authentic voice of a human writer?

This question has become particularly pertinent in my journey as a writer, especially in my attempts to gain visibility on platforms like Medium.

The AI Conundrum in Writing

I’ve always been fascinated by the potential of AI to enhance my writing.

Like many others, I envisioned AI as a tool to refine my ideas and craft them into eloquent essays or engaging blog posts.

This led me to experiment with ChatGPT, hoping it would help me expand my main points into full-fledged articles.

However, this approach, I realized, was flawed.

Despite my efforts, my articles weren’t gaining the traction I hoped for on Medium.

They received some views, reads, and claps, but never made it to the coveted “For You” tab.

I couldn’t help but notice that certain authors seemed to have their work promoted almost daily. This discrepancy led me to question: What was I missing?

Intrigued, I began scouring the internet for answers and stumbled upon a revealing article titled “Medium Says Writers Can Use AI — Under One Condition.”

The insights I gained were eye-opening, to say the least. It was a moment of reckoning, prompting me to reevaluate my approach to writing.

Avoiding the Pitfalls of AI in Writing

The realization hit hard.

Was I too dependent on AI? Was my voice getting lost in the algorithmically generated content?

I needed to find a balance where AI could assist without overshadowing my personal touch. Here’s how I decided to pivot:

Embracing Simplicity and Authenticity

The key, I realized, was to write as naturally as I would chat with friends on WhatsApp or social media.

Embracing simplicity meant opting for shorter, more digestible sentences over complex, long-winded ones.

Short paragraphs became my new norm, often consisting of just one sentence.

This approach not only made my writing more accessible but also lent it a conversational tone, resonating more with readers.

Overcoming Language Barriers

English is not my first language, which added another layer of complexity to my writing process.

To tackle this, I turned to tools like Grammarly, which helped me navigate grammatical nuances and refine the tone of my writing.

This was a game-changer, allowing me to express myself more confidently and clearly.

AI as a Complementary Tool

I began to view AI not as a crutch but as a complementary tool.

It was there to suggest ideas, help with structure, and offer guidance on grammar and style.

However, the core of the content—the soul of the writing—had to come from me.

A New Beginning

Armed with these insights, I embarked on a new journey.

I wrote an article without AI assistance, focusing solely on expressing my thoughts in their most authentic form.

This experiment was not just about testing a different writing method; it was about rediscovering my voice as a writer.

The results were more encouraging than I had anticipated.

There was a noticeable difference in how readers engaged with my content.

The personal touch, the human element in my writing, seemed to resonate more profoundly.

The Road Ahead

As I continue on this path, I’m keenly aware that the world of content creation is constantly changing.

AI will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping this landscape.

However, it’s crucial to remember that the heart of great writing lies in the human experience—the emotions, perspectives, and insights that only a human can provide.

My journey has taught me that while AI can be a valuable asset, it should never overshadow the authenticity and personal touch that define truly impactful writing.

So, to my fellow writers grappling with this modern dilemma, I say: Embrace AI, but let your unique voice lead the way.

Happy writing, and good luck to us all!

Check out my Startup Survival latest book.

Why Book Titles Are Important and Why I Changed Twice

Book Cover by Author.

I wrote this book with little thought about the title.

Later, I regretted it – I changed the book title twice.

Understanding the Digital Marketplace

The title of a book is a critical component of its success.

This was a lesson I learned by renaming my eBook, initially titled “IoT Adventure.”

My experience underscores the significance of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and strategic keyword use in book titles, particularly in the ever-expanding digital marketplace.

Initial Title: “IoT Adventure” – Capturing Excitement and Exploration

My foray into the publishing world began with the release of my eBook on the Internet of Things (IoT). Choosing “IoT Adventure” as the title, I aimed to encapsulate the excitement and exploration inherent in the burgeoning field of IoT.

The title was catchy, reflecting the pioneering spirit of the subject matter.

However, this title was more than just a creative expression; it was my first step in understanding the intricate dance between content and discoverability in the digital realm.

Transition to “IoT Frontier” – Embracing a Pioneering Spirit

After some reflection, I renamed the eBook to “IoT Frontier.”

This subtle yet significant shift in the title was meant to evoke a sense of pioneering, aligning with the innovative nature of IoT.

Despite this, I soon encountered a vital realization. In the digital age, where eBooks are adrift in a vast ocean of online content, a compelling title is a linchpin in the struggle for visibility.

The Power of SEO and Keywords: Finalizing “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide”

This realization brought me to the crux of digital marketing: the power of SEO and the meticulous choice of keywords. “IoT Adventure” was engaging, and “IoT Frontier” resonated with innovation, but were these titles optimized for the digital audience, specifically for those seeking knowledge in the IoT domain?

This led me to the final and most strategic title change: “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide.”

This final title was more than a mere label; it was a deliberate and strategic choice.

Including “Beginner’s Guide” in the title, which is capitalized on a commonly searched phrase by novices across various fields.

This strategic incorporation significantly enhanced the eBook’s discoverability to my intended audience – those embarking on their IoT learning journey.

Aligning Title with Content: A Strategic and Pragmatic Approach

The choice of “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide” was not solely about leveraging popular search keywords.

It was a thoughtful alignment of the book’s title with its core offering – an accessible, comprehensive introduction to IoT for beginners.

This title clearly defined the book’s target audience and content scope, increasing the likelihood of reaching readers seeking a foundational understanding of IoT.

Reflecting on the Journey: Emotional Attachment vs. Market Realities

Looking back, the evolution of my eBook’s title reflects a deepened understanding of the dynamics of the digital marketplace.

While “IoT Adventure” and “IoT Frontier” were titles I held close to my heart, the final choice of “IoT: A Beginner’s Guide” was a decision driven by pragmatism, market insights, and a clear comprehension of my audience’s needs and search behaviors.

Key Lessons Learned: The Importance of Title in Digital Content Strategy

This journey in renaming my eBook has been illuminating, teaching me a crucial lesson about digital content strategy.

It emphasized that the success of written work in the digital age is not solely about the content but also how it is presented to the world. A compelling title is a beacon, directing the right readers to your work.

It is a harmonious blend of creativity and analytics, art and science.

Advice to Fellow Authors and Content Creators

To fellow authors and content creators, I offer this advice: When devising a title, consider its reflection of your content and its performance in the competitive online search landscape.

A title is more than just a name; it is a vital, and often the most crucial, marketing tool in your arsenal.

Balancing creative expression with strategic marketing considerations ensures your work finds its audience in the vast digital expanse.