Tag: money

The Hard Lessons When Having a Drastic Niche Shift on Medium

The Art of Engagement

Rebuilding a Community Around New Passions

Photo by Alexander Mils on Unsplash

The Unexpected Turn of March

March arrived with its usual unpredictability, but this time, it had a few extra tricks up its sleeve.

As I tried to reshape my content creation focus toward travelogue and poetry, the thrill of embarking on a new adventure was palpable.

Little did I know, this transition would serve up some unexpected lessons in content engagement and audience dynamics.

Why March Became a Desert in My Content Oasis

My previous content, centered on Medium insights and earnings, resonated well with my audience, creating a reliable stream of engagement and income.

The shift to travelogues and poetry, driven by a desire for fresh creativity and exploration, was a stark departure from the norm.

This new direction, while exciting for me, didn’t strike the same chord with my established audience, leading to a notable dip in engagement and earnings.

Understanding Audience Disengagement

The decision to leap into new thematic territories was met with silence and dwindling numbers.

It became clear that the audience I had cultivated was more attuned to my analytical pieces on Medium and earnings rather than the artistic nuance of travel tales or the rhythmic beauty of poetry.

The stark decrease in interaction was a loud and clear message: my audience’s preferences were not aligning with my new content direction.

Embracing Change and Community Engagement

Recognizing the disconnect, I acknowledged the necessity of fostering a new community aligned with my current interests.

Engaging with fellow travel and poetry enthusiasts became my new focus, marking the beginning of planting seeds in a garden I hoped would flourish.

Through active participation, sharing, and interaction within these new niches, I aimed to cultivate a dedicated audience who shared my passion for these genres.

Growth and Optimism Ahead

Despite the challenges, the latter part of March showed glimmers of engagement, suggesting that with persistence and genuine interaction, growth is possible.

While the journey through March was more humbling than celebratory, it underscored the value of adaptability and perseverance in content creation.

Lessons Learned and the Path Forward

This experience taught me that change, while necessary for growth, comes with its own set of challenges.

Audience engagement is not just about content creation but also about nurturing a community that resonates with your message.

As I look to the future, I remain committed to my new path, knowing that with time, effort, and engagement, I can rebuild a connected and supportive audience base.

In conclusion, March was a month of unexpected lessons and reflection, reminding me that the journey of content creation is ever-evolving.

Despite the initial setbacks, the experience has only fueled my resolve to pursue my passions and foster a community that shares them.

Why do some writers and creators become known for a term, a phrase, or even an entire category, while others (talented as they might be) fade away?

To write within your niche, check this Audible Audiobook from Amazon “Become Known for a Niche You Own: Why Legendary Writers Use Languaging to Design New & Different Categories”.

https://mazlanabbas.com/subscribe

My Path to Monetization on Medium

Breaking Through the Noise: How I Carved My Niche in the Content Chaos

Every Like, Comment, and Share: The Story of My Digital Pursuit

Try everything on Social Media. Photo from Unsplash.

Everyone seems to be chasing the elusive dream of turning their online presence into gold.

That’s been me for the longest time, hopping from one social media platform to another, pouring my heart and soul into content creation, only to watch the numbers crawl.

Here’s my tale of digital hustle, occasional despair, and a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel.

Start with YouTube

It all began with YouTube, the holy grail of video content.

I thought, “Hey, I have ideas, I can be engaging, let’s give this a shot.”

So, I dived headfirst into the world of video making, learning the ropes of editing, scripting, and whatnot.

I imagined myself as the next big thing, with viewers hanging onto my every word, my every video.

Reality hit hard.

Despite the hours, days, and weeks I invested, my videos languished in obscurity.

The views were meager, the subscriber count dismal. Monetizing?

Ha, that was a distant dream.

YouTube, it seemed, was not my golden ticket.

Pivot to Instagram, Facebook and X

Undeterred, I pivoted to Instagram, Facebook, and the mysterious ‘X’. “Different platforms, different strategies,” I told myself.

I crafted posts, curated images, and waited for the magic to happen.

Spoiler alert: it didn’t.

My content was, apparently, a drop in the vast ocean of digital noise. I wasn’t influencing, engaging, or monetizing anything.

How about TikTok?

Then came TikTok, my unexpected beacon of light.

Finally, my follower count ticked up, and my videos gained traction.

But here’s the kicker — I had no clue how to convert that attention into cash.

Selling products on TikTok Live? Not my cup of tea.

I was content with the likes and shares, but they didn’t pay the bills.

Trying out Pinterest

Pinterest was next on my list. “Visual appeal,” they said. “It’s all the rage.”

So, I pinned. I pinned photos, videos, infographics — you name it. The result?

A resounding meh. My pins floated aimlessly in the vast sea of better, brighter content.

Merchandise here I come!

Redbubble offered a glimmer of hope. “Turn your creativity into merchandise!” they proclaimed.

So, I did. I designed, uploaded, and… waited.

A sale here, a sale there, but nothing to write home about.

My earnings were laughable, barely enough to buy a cup of coffee.

Time for Affiliate Marketing!

Amazon affiliate marketing was another venture that promised much but delivered little.

I linked, I promoted, I anticipated.

Alas, the commissions were as elusive as ever. My dreams of passive income remained just that — dreams.

Then, almost as a last resort, I stumbled upon Medium.

A platform for writers, they said. “Share your stories, your insights, your voice.”

So, with a cautious optimism, I began to write.

And what do you know?

People read. They clapped. They commented.

My articles, my thoughts, laid bare for the world to see, and they resonated.

Medium became my haven, my niche.

I discovered I could earn, albeit modestly, from my writing.

Each article contributed a few cents, sometimes dollars, to my account.

It wasn’t a fortune, but it was something tangible, a validation of my efforts.

Buoyed by this newfound success, I ventured further.

I promoted my eBooks on Medium, connecting with an audience keen on my content, my style.

Gumroad became my ally, a platform where my digital books found readers and, yes, buyers.

Reflecting on this journey, I’ve learned that the digital world is fickle, unpredictable.

Success on social media is a blend of talent, timing, and sheer luck.

For years, I chased the dream across various platforms, only to find my footing in a space that valued substance over style, quality over quantity.

Now, as I pen my thoughts on Medium, earn enough to indulge in a coffee, or cover my commute toll, I realize that success isn’t just about the numbers or the dollars.

It’s about finding your voice, your audience, and, importantly, your satisfaction in the content you create.

So, to all the digital wanderers out there, my advice?

Keep exploring, keep creating.

Your Medium might just be around the corner, waiting for you to make your mark.

And who knows?

That mark might just turn into your morning coffee, one word at a time.

My Top 5 Articles in February — Top 3 Lessons

Key Lessons

Lessons from February month.

The February month is over.

Top 5 articles (Author’s earnings in February)

Although I didn’t achieve my target and none of my articles earned beyond the $10 mark, I can still analyze what works and what doesn’t.

Here are the top three things that I discovered and the lessons I learned:

1 — Audience Engagement is Everything

Whether it’s understanding what my readers prefer through AI analysis or recognizing the shift in social media metrics from follower count to engagement, it’s crystal clear that what truly matters is how my audience interacts with my content.

This engagement — be it through claps, comments, or shares — drives visibility, fosters community, and ultimately, spells success more than any vanity metric could.

2 — Authenticity and Value Trump Volume

Across these articles, whether discussing content creation on Medium or rethinking my follower strategy, the underlying theme is authenticity.

Creating content that’s genuinely valuable, that speaks to personal experiences, and offers real insights or assistance is far more rewarding and impactful than merely playing the numbers game.

It’s about resonating with readers or followers on a meaningful level, not just broadcasting to the masses.

3 — Strategic Reflection and Adaptation are Key

Be it leveraging AI for content analysis, reassessing social media strategies, or finding clarity in solitude, these top articles underscore the importance of strategic reflection.

It’s not just about churning out content or mindlessly following growth hacks.

It’s about pausing, analyzing, and adapting strategies based on introspection and insights — whether those come from data, expert advice, or personal reflection.

The top 5 articles are shown below:

(1) Utilising AI Assistance to Analyze My Medium Articles (Discover My Findings)

I utilized AI to analyze my top 28 Medium articles to uncover the themes that truly engage my audience and enhance my financial success.

This exploration showed that my readers prefer content that emphasizes writing enhancement, personal development, stories of success on Medium, perseverance, insightful strategies, and the clever integration of technology into writing.

The articles that earned the most offered practical guidance, motivational stories, and valuable insights on how to leverage Medium for growth and revenue.

Pieces that were reflective and analytical, particularly those that shared personal journeys and strategic tips, attracted considerable interest.

This suggests a clear preference among my audience for content that melds inspirational and pragmatic elements, all within the context of writing and earning on Medium.

View at Medium.com

(2) Why Follower Count Doesn’t Matter Anymore

In my journey as an influencer, I’ve learned that follower count is no longer the benchmark of success on social media, a revelation supported by insights from digital marketing expert Neil Patel.

Despite having millions of followers, the real success metric has shifted towards engagement — how much interaction your content receives through likes, comments, and shares.

The transformation in social media algorithms now favors content engagement over sheer follower numbers, allowing those with fewer followers but high engagement to achieve greater visibility.

This evolution underscores the importance of creating valuable, engaging content rather than fixating on increasing follower count.

In essence, the focus should be on fostering community and connection, providing meaningful stories and experiences that resonate with and captivate your audience.

View at Medium.com

(3) Why I Waste My Time on Medium!!

I often immerse myself in Medium, dedicating numerous hours that some might view as ‘wasted.’ However, this time is a strategic investment that significantly benefits my personal and professional growth.

My engagement with Medium allows me to monetize my passion for writing through its partner program, creating a valuable income source.

It’s also a platform where I’ve built a vibrant community, connecting with individuals who share my interests and can potentially collaborate or support my ventures.

Additionally, Medium helps me expand my email list and drive traffic to my eBook stores, enhancing my revenue and online presence.

By sharing my expertise, particularly in the Internet of Things (IoT), I establish myself as a thought leader, which opens up further opportunities. My startup, Favoriot, gains visibility and credibility through my posts, fostering trust and unveiling new business possibilities.

Moreover, Medium’s robust SEO boosts my articles’ online reach, enhancing my visibility and personal brand.

In essence, Medium is an invaluable resource that propels my professional endeavors, far from being a mere pastime.

View at Medium.com

(4) Break the Mind Barrier by Being Alone

When I face tough challenges, I often find solace and clarity in solitude, particularly in a tranquil garden spot outside my office.

It’s there, amidst the gentle breeze and the morning sun, that my mind begins to unravel, allowing me to delve deep into introspection.

I question, analyze, and reflect on my entrepreneurial journey, considering the hurdles and the triumphs. This quiet moment alone is vital for me to maintain perspective, to appreciate the dedication of my team unknowingly supporting the weight of my concerns.

Writing, then, becomes an extension of this solitude — a means to articulate and share my experiences, to connect with others, and perhaps to find a semblance of therapy in expressing myself.

My articles are not just narratives; they are fragments of my essence, aiming to inspire or assist others while inviting them into my world.

This cycle of contemplation and expression in my solitary retreat is crucial, grounding me and equipping me to face another day with renewed vigor and clarity.

View at Medium.com

(5) From Today Onwards, I Will Stop Following Others (Using This Method)

I’ve always been perplexed by the dynamics of gaining followers on Medium until I discovered a strategy suggesting that following people back could boost my own follower count.

So, I embarked on a selective following spree, targeting users who actively clapped for articles I enjoyed, under the impression that we shared similar interests.

This approach indeed escalated my follower numbers to over 1,700, but at the cost of following more than 4,400 people, which skewed my followers-to-following ratio unfavorably. Recognizing the need for authenticity and balance, I’ve decided to halt the aggressive following strategy.

Now, I will only reciprocate follows from those genuinely interested in my content, aiming for a more organic and meaningful connection with my audience.

Here’s to finding a harmonious balance in my social media presence and forging genuine connections without the numbers game overshadowing my true intent.

View at Medium.com

Two Things I Will Do Differently to Achieve My January 2024 Target

And Five More Secret Tips Below

Image created using Canva by Author

Why $65 instead of $50?

I realized I needed to add up the “loss” from the withholding tax of 30%.

Thus, I need to multiply $50 x 1.3 = $65

But how much have I already earned?

I have six more days to reach the goal.

Am I able to reach it?

Yes, if I can get at least $1.00 per day for the next 5–6 days.

Unfortunately, the earnings have dropped lower than a dollar for the last few days.

As much as I have spent several hours reading and engaging with others, the numbers have dropped.

I need to return to the drawing board and understand what’s happening.

I probably have a few things that contribute to this lower readership or earnings:

  1. Fewer articles behind the paywall. For some strategic reasons, I have published several articles for free (non-paywall). Most of this is for my general tech audience and marketing materials.
  2. Fewer articles were published about “money-making” topics, which are very popular among readers.

Five Tips That I Will Try for My Upcoming Writings (You can try these too!):

  1. Listicles and Guides: These structured, easy-to-digest formats often go viral. They break down information into bite-sized, numbered, or bulleted points, making them highly shareable on social media. For example, a travel blog might create a listicle like “10 Must-Visit Destinations in Europe,” which outlines top travel spots, offering quick insights and engaging visuals for each location.
  2. Storytelling: Incorporating narratives in your content can deeply engage your audience by connecting emotionally. For instance, if you’re writing for a fitness website, you could share a personal journey of someone who overcame challenges to achieve their health goals. This not only inspires readers but also makes the content relatable.
  3. Regular Features: Establishing a series of recurring columns can build a dedicated following. Readers return for the familiar format and content. A cooking blog, for instance, might have a weekly feature like “Sunday Supper Specials,” where a new recipe is shared every Sunday, encouraging readers to anticipate and return for these posts.
  4. Email Newsletters: Keep your audience engaged and informed by sending regular newsletters. This could include updates, latest posts, or exclusive content. For example, a tech review site could send a monthly newsletter featuring a roundup of the newest gadget reviews, tech news, and a sneak peek at upcoming content.
  5. Guest Blogging: Writing posts for other blogs can expose you to a new audience. Choose blogs that align with your niche to attract readers who are likely interested in your content. For instance, if you run a photography blog, guest posting on a popular travel blog about “Top Photography Tips for Travelers” can attract travelers interested in photography to your site.
  6. Interactive Content: Engaging your audience with interactive elements like polls, quizzes, or infographics can increase your site’s engagement and time. For example, an educational website might include a quiz at the end of an article about history, testing readers on what they’ve learned. This makes the learning experience fun and encourages readers to interact with the content.

Thanks for reading this, my friends!

Any new suggestions? It will help me to achieve my goal this month!

UPDATE (January 31, 2024)

Voila! Yay! I achieved my target! Just an extra $0.65 above my target! I felt delighted!

Related Tips

View at Medium.comView at Medium.comView at Medium.com

My Top 5 out of 289 Published Medium Articles: Lessons Learned

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

I have written articles in Medium since July 2016.

It was a very long time ago, and compared to others, 289 articles are many when you average for the last eight years.

I had a different mood during those years, and only last year I started to write more rigorously and consistently.

Medium stats are suitable to analyze and reflect on what works and what doesn’t.

Below are screenshots comparing the top of my highest earnings, most viewed, and most read.

Screenshot of top 5 earnings
Screenshot of top 5 views
Screenshot of top 5 reads.

These are my findings:

  1. Common Themes in Top Earning Articles: The five highest-earning articles on Medium in 2024 predominantly focus on writing on the platform. These include discussions on improving writing skills, personal experiences, and practical tips for success:
    – Avoid These 10 Mistakes and Become a Better Writer in 2024
    – Tripling My Medium December Earnings: When I Implement These Amazing Things
    – Why You Should Not Give Up Writing When No One is Reading Your Articles
    – Lessons Learned Before and After Joining Medium Partner
    – No Wonder My Articles Don’t Get Boosted Because I am Using AI to Help Me
  2. High Views on Free Articles: Articles without a paywall, particularly those published in the “IoT World” publication, tend to attract more views. This is attributed to their public accessibility and broader reach.
  3. Articles that resonate with the broader Medium writing community, especially those offering experiences and tips on improving reach, earnings, and engagement, are more likely to be monetized effectively.

This article best shows how you want to get excellent traction and earnings:

View at Medium.com

Remember to Subscribe to receive email updates on every post I publish.

Join me on Buy Me a Coffee and buy me a coffee (or two). Your support fuels my creativity, and we’ll continue this incredible adventure together! Just click here:https://buymeacoffee.com/mazlan.

Lessons Learned Before and After Joining Medium Partner

I joined Medium and have been writing articles since July 2016.

But I could have been more active and serious about writing on Medium. I was more involved in writing for my blogs — Mazlan Abbas, IoT World, and others.

Sometimes, I would come back to Medium and republish my blog articles on Medium, thinking people would be able to read them, too.

I was wrong! Only a handful of people are reading and following my republished articles.

I joined the Medium Partner Program (MPP) at the end of September 2023. Because I wanted to read the articles behind the paywall, I couldn’t resist the temptation of reading all the great and catchy headlines.

But I also made a target that I should be active and ensure that the money earned from my writing can pay for the subscription.

Below is the traffic stats from August to November 2023. You will notice that the traffic (views and reads) was very low before the end of September 2023. It was much quieter since July 2016.

Screenshot August 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)
Screenshot September 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)
Screenshot October 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)
Screenshot November 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)
Screenshot December 2023 Traffic Stats (Author)

The stats gave me a view of my performance and made me understand what works and what doesn’t.

Read/Views Ratio:

August: 12/27 = 44.44% = ($0.00)
September: 21/85 = 24.7% ($0.37)
October: 90/317 = 28.39% ($8.63)
November: 244/635 = 38.42% ($6.89)
December: 428/1000 = 42.8% ($55.62)

Screenshot Earnings Stats (August — December 2023) (Author)

In August 2023, although I had one of the highest read ratios, I earned nothing, probably because of other factors such as low views and reads. I was not engaging with other writers. I’m only busy republishing my old content.

Reflecting on your experience before and after joining the Medium Partner Program, several valuable lessons can be drawn from your writing journey. Here are three key lessons:

  1. Create Content That Resonates with Your Audience: Your experience highlights the importance of crafting articles that genuinely resonate with your audience. While republishing blog content on Medium seemed like a good idea, it didn’t yield the expected results regarding reader engagement. This suggests that understanding the preferences and interests of the Medium audience is crucial. Tailoring your content to meet these preferences, whether it’s through topic selection, writing style, or presentation, can significantly increase reader engagement and following.
  2. Catchy Headlines Are Essential: Your observation about being drawn to articles with great and catchy headlines on Medium is a crucial lesson. A compelling headline is often the first point of contact with potential readers. It can make the difference between someone deciding to read your article or scrolling past it. Investing time crafting engaging, intriguing, or thought-provoking headlines can significantly increase the likelihood of attracting more readers.
  3. Continuous Engagement with Other Writers is Key: One of the most important lessons from my journey is the value of engaging with other writers on the platform. Initially, I focused more on republishing existing content than actively engaging with the Medium community. However, engagement with other writers helps build a network and provides insights into what works well on the platform. This engagement can take many forms, such as commenting on other articles, participating in discussions, or collaborating with other writers. Such interactions increase my visibility and provide opportunities for learning and growth as a writer.

These lessons are valuable for writing on Medium, as well as for content creation and audience engagement in general.

They underscore the importance of understanding your audience, the power of first impressions through headlines, and the benefits of active participation in a writing community.

How I Multiple My Earnings By Pinning My Articles Correctly

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

Here is a little trick that might be your next big breakthrough on Medium.

I’m talking about the art of pinning articles – a super simple but incredibly impactful feature.

It’s like finding a treasure chest in your backyard.

Let me walk you through my journey and share some insights that might spark a revolution in your Medium game!

The Magic of Pinning: Why It’s a Game-Changer

Pinning articles on Medium – sounds pretty basic, right?

But trust me, it’s like strategically placing your best pieces in a virtual showcase.

When new visitors or loyal followers land on your profile, they first see what you choose to highlight.

It’s your golden opportunity to make a lasting impression.

I discovered this magic when I pinned my top articles.

They weren’t just sitting ducks; they turned into my star performers, my top-earning musketeers!

Below is proof of how my December earnings changed when I tried the pinning strategy.

My December earnings multiplied by almost six times when I tried pinning.

It was as if they were on a digital billboard on the busiest highway of the internet, waving at every passerby.

First Impressions: The Make or Break

First impressions are everything.

When you gain new followers (and oh, you will!), they’re likely to snoop around your profile.

And what they find first could decide whether they stick around or bounce off.

Pinning your best work is like rolling out the red carpet for them.

It’s your moment to say, “Welcome! Here’s the cream of the crop!”

I pinned articles that resonated most with my readers, and the impact was clear as day.

Engagement shot up, and so did my earnings. It’s a straightforward yet powerful strategy to keep your audience hooked.

The Pinning Experiment: Duration and Reviving Underperformers

Here’s where it gets a bit experimental.

I started playing around with how long to keep articles pinned.

The goal?

To keep my profile fresh yet impactful. It’s like curating an art exhibition; you want to give each masterpiece time to shine without turning the gallery stale.

But what about those not-so-popular articles?

Can pinning work like a charm for them, too?

I’m on a mission to find out.

It’s like giving a second chance to those hidden gems, letting them bask in the spotlight, maybe for the first time.

Below are some articles that began gaining traction when I gave them the turn to be pinned. Otherwise, these articles only get between 0 cents to $0.01.

Screenshot by author: I tried to pin these four articles, and the strategy works!

Your Turn to Pin and Win!

So, what’s stopping you?

Dive into your collection of articles and start pinning.

Pick the ones that truly embody your best work or have already won hearts.

It’s a small step for you, but it could be a giant leap for your Medium presence.

And remember, variety is the spice of life.

Keep rotating your pinned articles to see which ones resonate with your audience. It’s all about trying different flavors and seeing which tastes the best.

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

Pinning as Your Secret Sauce

Pinning articles is like wielding a secret weapon in the vast arsenal of Medium.

It’s easy to overlook, but its power is undeniable once you use it.

It’s not just about crafting brilliant content; it’s about strategically showcasing it to the world.

So go ahead, start pinning, and watch the magic unfold.

And why not share your pinning experiences in the comments?

Let’s exchange notes and grow together in this exhilarating journey of writing and sharing on Medium!

How I Created Online Money Making Machines

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

I have been online for many years and have yet to take seriously if I could make money online. I tried but was never that successful.

Finally, in 2023, I have a target to monetize my online activities. Instead of trying on one channel, I tried a few.

Here are some of them.

E-Commerce Marketplace

I wanted to sell some merchandise such as T-shirts or mugs. Finally, I chose Redbubble to do just that.

Slowly but surely, it started to get noticed, and some people bought shirts and other merchandise.

https://www.redbubble.com/people/mazlan/shop

I may use AI tools such as Midjourney to create better designs. I will update this progress very soon.

Blogs

The easiest way is to use Medium.

And I started to monetize it in October 2023.

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

View at Medium.com

I will use other Blogs, such as Mazlan Abbas’s and IoT World blogs, to attract traffic to my other channels.

View at Medium.comView at Medium.com

X (Formerly Twitter)

Since I have subscribed as a Premium X user, I aimed to monetize the tweets via ads, but I need to have had at least 5 million views for the last three months.

The 5 Million views was a challenging target, but I finally managed to get it last month, and eventually, I can monetize my Tweets.

This is my X handle (@mazlan_abbas)

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

Ebooks

I have turned several of my articles into eBooks, which have now become a money earner.

IoT Notes is excellent for students and lecturers because it explains IoT using cartoons, images, and hand drawings.

View at Medium.com

Startup Survival: The Journey of a Tech Entrepreneur is one of my latest ebooks about my journey in entrepreneurship and the failures and successes I faced during the six years. A lot of Startup tips can be found here.

View at Medium.com

This eBook entitled IoT Frontier was released yesterday. It covers the aspects of IoT, especially in Malaysia and beyond, with examples of different applications and the tools that you need to develop an IoT project.

View at Medium.com

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

Don’t Depend on One Revenue Stream

Create several revenue streams and monitor which ones that are successful.

There’s no such passive income. Most of them require hard work, especially at the start.

You need to update and publicize them continuously.

Keep the channels active or ensure they’re always in the customers’ minds.

Be active on social media to drive traffic back to the channels.

From Medium Reader to Earner – If I Can, You Can Too!

Photo by Julia Joppien on Unsplash

I would like to share a personal milestone in my writing journey – a journey that has taken me from a regular contributor to a monetizing member of Medium’s Partner Program (MPP).

It’s a story of persistence, discovery, and the joy of turning a passion into a self-sustaining venture.

Early Days on Medium (Before October 2023)

My Medium journey started off like many others.

I was an active member, regularly contributing articles and engaging with content across various topics.

However, a persistent frustration was my inability to access many intriguing and valuable articles behind the Medium Partner Program’s paywall.

These articles, rich in insights about entrepreneurship, marketing, social media, writing, and monetization, were tantalizingly out of reach.

This limitation often left me wondering about the wealth of knowledge and lessons I was missing out on.

The Turning Point: Joining the Medium Partner Program

The decision to join the MPP wasn’t made lightly.

I was well aware of the commitment it required, not just in terms of the subscription fee, but also in the need to consistently produce quality content that would engage readers.

The turning point came when I asked myself a pivotal question: Why not make my writing pay for itself?

This led to the condition I set for myself – any decision to join the MPP must be financially self-sustaining.

Success and Insights (October to November 2023)

Photo by Alexander Mils on Unsplash

Since joining the MPP in October 2023, the journey has been nothing short of exhilarating.

In just two months, my earnings from articles exceeded the subscription fees, with more than $8.00 generated in October and over $5.00 in November.

This achievement wasn’t just about the numbers; it was a validation of my belief in the value of my writing and the potential of Medium as a platform for content creators.

The Joy of Self-Sustaining Creativity

What I’ve realized through this journey is the incredible satisfaction that comes from creating content that not only resonates with readers but also supports my passion financially.

It’s a fulfilling cycle: the more I write, the more I earn, and the more I can invest in accessing and learning from the wealth of knowledge shared by fellow Medium writers.

A Message to Aspiring Writers

To those contemplating a similar path, my message is simple: If I can do it, so can you.

Medium is more than just a platform for sharing thoughts – it’s a community of knowledge, growth, and opportunity.

By embracing the challenge of monetizing your writing, you open the door to not just financial rewards, but also to a deeper, more enriching experience on the platform.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Medium Journey!

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

In conclusion, my journey with Medium has evolved from simply sharing articles to embracing a rewarding cycle of learning, writing, and earning.

This experience has not only empowered my writing journey but also enriched my understanding of various subjects.

So, dive into the world of Medium with enthusiasm – write, learn, earn, and most importantly, enjoy every step of the journey!

Top 9 Books on Making Money Through Blogging

Blogging has transcended its roots as a personal hobby to become a potent avenue for generating substantial income.

With countless aspiring bloggers eager to carve out their niche and monetize their passion, the quest for reliable, insightful, and actionable guidance is more pressing than ever.

This blog review meticulously examines the top 10 books dedicated to the art and science of making money through blogging.

Each book under review has been selected for its depth of insight, practical strategies, and relevance to the continuously evolving blogging landscape.

These books offer more than mere tips; they are treasure troves of wisdom distilled from years of hands-on experience and success in the blogging realm.

From unlocking the secrets of content that resonates and engages, to demystifying the algorithms of search engines, and harnessing the power of social media marketing, these books provide a comprehensive toolkit for the modern blogger.

In an analytical dissection, we delve into each book’s core teachings, scrutinizing how their strategies align with the current digital trends and the practicality of their approaches in the real-world scenario of blogging.

This review aims not just to list books but to offer a critical lens through which both budding and seasoned bloggers can evaluate and choose the resources most aligned with their blogging journey and financial goals.

As the digital landscape becomes increasingly competitive, this review stands as a guiding light, illuminating the path to blogging success through the wisdom of those who have traversed it successfully.

  1. “ProBlogger: Secrets for Blogging Your Way to a Six-Figure Income” by Darren Rowse and Chris Garrett: This book is often cited for its comprehensive approach, offering practical advice from seasoned bloggers. It covers various aspects of blogging, from setting up a blog to monetizing it.
  2. “The Essential Habits Of 6-Figure Bloggers” by Sally Miller: This book delves into the habits and strategies of successful bloggers, providing insights into what it takes to earn a significant income from blogging.
  3. “How To Make Money Blogging” by Bob Lotich: Offering a straightforward approach, this book breaks down the process of starting a blog and monetizing it in a digestible format, ideal for beginners.
  4. “Blog, Inc.: Blogging for Passion, Profit, and to Create Community” by Joy Deangdeelert Cho: This book is a great resource for understanding the community and business aspects of blogging. It’s particularly noted for its insights into creating a loyal audience.
  5. “Blogging for Profits in 2020: 10,000/month ultimate guide” by Ronald Roberts: Focusing on recent trends and strategies, this book is valuable for those looking to understand the current blogging landscape and how to profit from it.
  6. “Content Inc.: How Entrepreneurs Use Content to Build Massive Audiences and Create Radically Successful Businesses” by Joe Pulizzi: While not exclusively about blogging, this book is essential for understanding content marketing, a key aspect of successful blogging.
  7. “SEO 2021: Learn Search Engine Optimization with Smart Internet Marketing Strategies” by Adam Clarke: Since SEO is crucial for blogging success, this book is a must-read for understanding how to make your blog visible and profitable through SEO.
  8. “Make Money Blogging: Proven Strategies to Make Money Online while You Work from Home” by Joseph Hogue: This book offers a blend of blogging basics and advanced monetization strategies, making it a useful guide for a range of readers.
  9. “The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users” by Guy Kawasaki and Peg Fitzpatrick: Recognizing the importance of social media in driving blog traffic, this book is a guide to effectively using social platforms to enhance a blog’s reach and profitability.