As an entrepreneur, consistent engagement in your ventures teaches you:
what strategies resonate most with your target market
the art of refining your products or services
the importance of innovation and adaptation
how to enhance your creativity
to perfect your entrepreneurial skills
Many are preoccupied with seeking instant success, often at the cost of their ethics and values.
However, by dedicating time to understand and develop your business processes, you enhance not just your professional abilities but also your mindset and mastery.
These improvements are invaluable and equip you to achieve any goals you set in your entrepreneurial journey.
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This gradual approach fosters resilience and insight, crucial for navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
It allows you to build a solid foundation, ensuring that your business can withstand challenges and capitalize on opportunities as they arise.
Moreover, by focusing on continuous learning and skill development, you establish a culture of excellence within your organization.
This commitment to quality and innovation will set you apart in a competitive market.
Remember, true entrepreneurial success comes from a deep understanding of your business, your market, and yourself.
It’s about making informed decisions that align with your long-term vision.
By investing in your growth and staying true to your values, you not only achieve your business goals but also contribute positively to your community and industry.
Stay patient, stay persistent, and keep pushing the boundaries of what you can achieve.
Your entrepreneurial journey is as much about the path you take as it is about the destination.
It is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and to rise time and again.
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There are moments in life that test the essence of our spirit, moments so dark that seems to fray at the edges.
I’ve walked through such shadows, where the haze of difficulty obscured the light of hope, and the relentless grind of failure seemed to beat down my every step.
In those gloomy days of my life, I felt as though I was trudging a weary path, my soul tired and heavy with the burdens of a life that seemed more about surviving than living.
Despair wrapped its cold hands around my heart, tightening with every setback and every disappointment.
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Yet, in this abyss, where the light of hope flickered dimly like the last star in a storm-ravaged sky, I paused.
Amid the turmoil of my failures, a spark within me refused to be snuffed out.
It was the flicker of inner might, a quiet but persistent voice that whispered, “Stand up from the dark,” urging me to fight back against the despair that threatened to consume me.
“Am I to fall here?” I questioned myself one evening, sitting in the dim light of my bedroom, surrounded by the manuscripts of my failed projects and the debris of broken dreams.
“Is this the end of my story?”
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From this despair, where hope had seemed as rare as a desert rose, strength surged through me, a strength born from the sheer will to dare to dream once more.
In my heart, a flame reignited, dispelling the shadows of fear and doubt that had clouded my vision.
This inner light guided me through the dark nights, each step forward fueled by newfound courage that shone brightly against the odds.
With resolve, I rose again, shedding the past pain and stain of failures.
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From the ashes of my defeats, I refrained from succumbing to the bane of giving up.
Renewed with vigor and standing firm on the solid ground of my convictions, I felt a resilient spirit being crowned within the depths of my soul.
The scars of my journey, etched deep within me, became not marks of shame but badges of honor — lessons that I carried as reminders of the steep climbs and the valleys oh so bleak.
Each scar was a story of a battle fought, a challenge met, and a victory, however small, achieved.
Here I stand, revived and rejuvenated.
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From the trials I faced, I derived strength, and from the woes I survived, I arrived at triumph.
Each tear that had fallen, each night filled with dread, had led me to a brighter path where hope and dreams were not just envisioned but vigorously pursued.
I rise like a phoenix, freed from the chains of despair’s dark decree.
Embracing life’s challenges, I am determined to be all I can be to fulfill the potential that life’s trials have revealed in me.
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So when days turn grim and dire, and I find myself walking through the metaphorical fire of life’s challenges, I remember my inner strength rising ever higher.
With each fall, I rise wiser and fiercer, aware that within me lies the prize of tomorrow’s bright sunrise.
In every moment of defeat, when I feel far from great, I recall the power innate within me — to change my destined fate.
For in my heart, no matter how low the moments might bring me, I possess the glow, the undying ember, that can ignite the fires of hope, resilience, and determination.
I am Mazlan Abbas, and this is my story, a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and to rise, time and again, like the mythical phoenix from the ashes of what was to the promise of what can be.
Have you ever risen from the ashes? Kindly share your stories.
The stories I listed generally revolve around personal achievements, career advancements, insights into earnings on different platforms, and significant decisions impacting professional direction.
These topics tend to resonate with readers for a few specific reasons:
Relatable Themes: Many people aspire to achieve personal and professional success. Articles that discuss overcoming fears, achieving financial success, or making significant career moves offer inspiration and relatable scenarios that many readers may find themselves aspiring to or empathizing with.
Authority and Expertise: Articles written by individuals who have achieved notable success or recognition carry weight because they come from a place of authority and experience. Readers will likely trust and value insights from someone considered a thought leader, especially given his extensive background and recognition in IoT and telecommunications.
Actionable Insights and Results: Stories that include specific outcomes, such as “I Earned 200X More on Medium Than on YouTube,” provide tangible results that can motivate readers. They offer a sense of potential financial or personal gains that can be achieved by following similar paths or methods, making these articles appealing to those looking for success stories or blueprints.
Transitions and Transformations: Readers are often drawn to stories of change and growth, such as moving from fear to confidence in public speaking or shifting a publication back to WordPress from Medium. These stories encapsulate journeys many find inspiring and can learn from, especially when contemplating similar changes in their lives or careers.
Engagement Mechanisms: One of the titles mentions claps and comments, suggesting a focus on Medium’s interactive aspects. Articles that explain or demystify platform-specific features tend to engage readers looking to optimize their use of these platforms.
Personal Stories: Personal narratives like “About Me (Part-6) — Mazlan Abbas” provide a human element that helps readers connect more personally. These stories often share challenges, insights, and personal milestones that add depth to the professional achievements and advice being presented.
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Common Traits of these articles include:
Utility: They provide practical advice or insights that readers can apply in their contexts.
Inspiration: They offer motivational content encouraging readers to pursue their goals or make significant changes.
Authority: The author’s expertise and background lend credibility to the content.
Personal Connection: They often include personal anecdotes or experiences, making them more relatable and engaging.
These factors combined make these articles likely to be top-performing pieces on platforms like Medium, where readers often look for inspiration and practical advice to boost their personal and professional lives.
Several years ago, I made a pivotal decision to transform my mindset and actions.
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I stopped:
complaining
hoping
wishing
Instead, I began to:
innovate
construct
realize
I committed to being consistent, persistent, and patient.
No matter how tough the journey got, how many heartaches I endured, or how daunting the challenges appeared.
Even in moments when it seemed there was no end in sight, when the storms outnumbered the sunny days, and the setbacks outnumbered the victories, I persevered.
My vision and purpose were larger than any obstacle.
Remember, no one understands your vision better than you.
No one else can construct it as effectively as you can.
Only you can turn it into reality.
Stay resilient on your entrepreneurial path.
The journey is not meant to be easy; if it were, everyone would succeed at it.
You are on the right path, and in time, you will reach your destination.
Stop being too hard on yourself; your startup journey is on the right track!
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This article is a chance to pause and reflect. Take a deep breath and allow yourself a moment to appreciate your progress and what you’ve achieved in your startup so far.
Here are 19 indicators, some clear and others more subtle, that suggest you’re doing better than you might think:
You frequently second-guess decisions. Doubt isn’t a sign of weakness; it indicates you’re open to growth and self-improvement. Reevaluating decisions means you’re thoughtful and forward-thinking.
You’ve secured some funding. Whether it’s from savings, angel investors, or a venture capital round, securing funding means someone believes in your vision. Celebrate that vote of confidence.
Your team is growing. Even if it’s just hiring your first employee or a co-founder joining you, growth in your team is a sure sign of startup success.
You’ve evolved from your original idea. Pivoting doesn’t mean failure; it shows you’re learning from interactions with the market and adjusting accordingly. That’s innovation at work.
You’ve experienced failure. Each failure is a lesson that refines your business model. If you’ve failed but kept going, you’re in the resilient minority.
You don’t worry about immediate shutdown. Having enough runway to plan beyond the next few months is a small luxury in the startup world. If you’re not in survival mode every day, you’re doing something right.
You have loyal customers. Even if it’s just a handful of loyal customers who love what you do, their continued support is a sign you’re adding real value.
You’ve received unsolicited customer feedback. Whether it’s praise or constructive criticism, feedback means customers care about your product enough to want to see it improve.
You’ve declined opportunities. Saying no to wrong fits, whether potential clients, hires, or partnerships, means you’re focusing on what truly aligns with your mission.
Your product has iterated several times. Each iteration means you’re closer to finding the best market fit. Continuous improvement is a cornerstone of successful startups.
You understand your market better than when you started Insight into your market is invaluable. If you know your customer well, you’re leaps ahead of many startups.
You’ve survived more than one “make-or-break” scenario. Getting through tough challenges means your startup has the resilience to face the ups and downs of the business world.
You have a dedicated workspace. Having a specific place where your team can focus and collaborate is a sign of establishing a solid foundation.
You’ve let go of what doesn’t work. Knowing when to cut losses is as important as knowing when to push forward. This ability to adapt is crucial for long-term success.
You’re excited by challenges. Seeing challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles is a sign of a positive mindset, crucial for entrepreneurial success.
You know how to manage stress Balancing the high pressures of startup life is no small feat. If you’ve developed coping mechanisms, you’re setting yourself up for sustained effort.
You’re thinking about scaling. Planning for growth, even if it’s just preliminary, means looking towards the future with optimism.
You’ve established a brand identity. Having a clear brand identity helps in making your startup memorable and recognizable. This is key in crowded markets.
You’re still passionate. Continuing to have passion for your venture is perhaps the most telling sign that you’re on the right path. Many lose this spark, but if you’ve still got it, you’re more than on track.
You’re laying down the tracks for future success, so keep pushing forward and stay grounded in your own progress, not someone else’s.
Your journey is unique, and you’re doing better than you think!
Follow the six (6) steps to become a better writer.
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As a writer who has penned hundreds of articles through blogging and writing technical journals, I’ve had my fair share of learning curves when crafting engaging content.
The journey from a novice scribbler to an adept wordsmith has been both challenging and rewarding. Through it, I’ve gathered some insights that I believe can benefit any aspiring writer.
Today, I’d like to share my personal experience and the tips I’ve developed for writing more focused and engaging articles.
When I first started writing, I was overwhelmed by the desire to say everything at once.
My drafts were often a jumble of thoughts, anecdotes, and data that, while individually interesting, did not cohesively support a single point. This lack of focus not only diluted the impact of my writing but also confused my readers.
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I remember one particular instance where an editor told me, “You’ve lost track of what you’re saying. This could be two or three articles.”
That feedback was a turning point for me. It made me realize the importance of narrowing my focus and sticking to one subject at a time to avoid turning my articles into mazes filled with dead ends.
Here’s how I started refining my approach:
Step 1: Structuring My Writing
Initially, revisiting the basic structure of essays and articles felt like a step backward.
But I quickly realized that even a casual piece needs a skeleton to support it. Each article starts with an introduction, in which I introduce the topic and explain why it matters.
This is followed by the body, where I delve into the details, using subheadings and paragraphs to organize my thoughts and make the content digestible.
Finally, I conclude by tying all my points together, referring back to the introduction, and leaving the reader with a final thought. This structure organizes my writing and helps the reader follow along easily.
Step 2: Knowing My Audience
One of the key lessons I learned early on was the importance of understanding my audience.
Who are they? What do they care about? How can my article add value to their lives?
Answering these questions before I start writing helps me tailor my content to the people most likely to read it.
Step 3: Paring Down My Ideas
Having too many ideas is more problematic than having too few.
I learned to be ruthless in cutting out or setting aside ideas that don’t directly support my main topic.
This streamlines the article and saves those “extra” ideas for future pieces, effectively building up a stockpile of content to draw from.
Step 4: Adding Personal Touches
While structure and focus are crucial, injecting personal anecdotes and emotions into my writing makes it resonate on a human level.
Whether it’s a touching moment shared with a grandchild or a frustrating day trying to master verb conjugations, these snippets bring my narrative to life and engage readers on a deeper level.
Step 5: Research and Validation
As much as personal stories enrich an article, facts, data, and expert opinions bolster credibility. I always take the time to research my topics thoroughly, ensuring that every claim I make can be backed up.
This is particularly important when writing about topics like health, finance, or technology, where misinformation can have real-world consequences.
Step 6: Editing with Precision
Finally, no article is ready for publication without a thorough edit.
This process involves proofreading for grammar and spelling and revising sentences and paragraphs for clarity and impact. I read my drafts aloud to catch awkward phrasings and ensure natural flow.
After consistently implementing these steps, I noticed a significant improvement in the engagement and clarity of my articles.
Seeing readers respond positively is gratifying, especially when an editor sends a piece through with few or no revisions.
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To encapsulate, here are the essential tips for writing focused and engaging articles that I’ve shared:
Structure Your Writing: Use a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
Understand Your Audience: Tailor your content to their interests and needs.
Focus Your Topic: Limit your scope to maintain clarity and depth.
Inject Personal Stories: Make your writing resonate more deeply with readers.
Back-Up Claims: Use research and data to lend credibility to your article.
Edit Thoroughly: Never underestimate the power of revision for enhancing readability and impact.
Writing is more than a mechanical task; it’s a form of communication that requires empathy, clarity, and, most importantly, a connection with your reader.
As writers, our goal is to share information and invite our audience into an enriching and enlightening conversation.
By continually honing our craft and focusing on these principles, we improve our skills and enhance the reader’s experience.
While the process can sometimes feel daunting, creating a well-received article is immensely rewarding.
Each piece is a learning experience, an opportunity to connect with others and share a part of ourselves.
This iterative process of writing and feedback makes a writer’s journey so uniquely fulfilling.
Remember, the art of writing is not just about adhering to techniques; it’s about evolving and adapting.
The more we write, the more we learn about ourselves and our audience, and the better we communicate our thoughts and ideas effectively. This beautiful growth cycle fuels personal and professional development.
I encourage you to embrace the process, cherish your unique voice, and continue to share your insights with the world.
The path may be lined with challenges but also rich with rewards.
Keep writing, keep learning, and most importantly, keep engaging your readers with every word you write.
What a year it has been! From the highs of success to the lows of unexpected hurdles, the journey of my earnings on Medium in April 2024 has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride — 107 times more exhilarating than last April, to be precise!
So, grab your favorite cup of coffee and settle in as I describe the twists and turns of this incredible story from my personal perspective.
Let’s start with a bit of background.
Last year, I remember staring at my earnings report in disbelief. The numbers were dismal, barely a blip on the financial radar.
April 2023 — Only 52 cents!
I pondered, “How can this be? I’ve been pouring my heart and soul into every post!”
It was frustrating, to say the least.
But then, as I often remind myself in moments of doubt, necessity really is the mother of invention.
I needed a game changer, and I needed it fast.
Here’s where the magic began.
I revamped my entire approach.
No stone was left unturned — strategy, engagement, content.
You name it, I tweaked it.
But more than anything, it was about connecting on a deeper level with my readers and fellow writers.
1 — Building a Vibrant Network
First up, I decided to build a more vibrant network.
It wasn’t just about increasing numbers, but about fostering meaningful interactions.
I targeted active Medium writers who were not just contributors but engaged community members.
I liken it to joining a buzzing hive of activity and positioning myself right at the center.
The energy was contagious, and it paid off in spades.
2 — Engaging on a Deeper Level
Then, I took engagement up a notch.
Instead of generic comments, I initiated genuine conversations.
Imagine this: you comment on a post and the author dives deep into a discussion with you.
It’s thrilling, right?
That’s what I aimed for — real connections that went beyond the surface.
This wasn’t just about increasing my visibility; it was about building a community, a place where everyone felt heard and valued.
I often found myself deep in thought, pondering, “What makes an interaction truly meaningful?”
It’s the personal touch, the effort to engage on a human level, not just as a writer but as a fellow enthusiast of life’s myriad stories.
3 — A Gesture of Appreciation: Clapping for Comments
Appreciation goes a long way.
On Medium, claps are more than just applause — they’re a show of gratitude.
I made it a point to clap for comments, acknowledging each person’s contribution.
This small gesture helped transform casual readers into loyal followers. It felt like every clap sent a ripple of positivity across my network.
4 — Continuous Improvement and Crafting Catchy Headlines
But let’s not forget the backbone of any writing endeavor — content.
I experimented with styles, explored different genres, and sharpened my voice.
Each article was a new journey.
And headlines? They were my secret weapon.
Crafting an irresistible headline became an art form in itself, one that could captivate and intrigue with just a few words.
So, what was the result of all these efforts?
My Medium profile didn’t just grow; it soared.
107 times more in April 2024
Followers multiplied, views skyrocketed, and, yes, earnings increased — a whopping 107 times the previous April! It felt like striking digital gold.
Now, you might wonder, “Is there a secret recipe to this success?” Honestly, it’s about more than just strategies and techniques.
It’s about connecting authentically, engaging sincerely, and never stopping the quest for improvement.
As I wrap up this tale of transformation, I can’t help but reflect on the broader implications.
It’s not just about boosting numbers or earning more — it’s about the journey, the connections made, and the growth experienced along the way.
If you’re looking to amplify your presence on any platform, not just Medium, why not try these strategies?
Dive into the deep end of engagement, cherish every interaction, and always, always keep your content dynamic.
You never know — you might find yourself penning your own success story.
Remember, in the world of content creation, it’s not just the destination that counts — it’s the vibrant, sometimes challenging, but always enriching journey.
So, embrace it fully, with all its ups and downs, because that’s where the real magic happens.
Happy writing, and here’s to a journey filled with discovery and success!
Have you ever felt the frustration of wanting to write but being unable to translate your thoughts into words? It’s as though the blank screen before you is mocking you with its emptiness while the cursor blinks away, reminding you of your creative stagnation.
In such moments, your mind is a whirlwind of conflicting ideas, and you find yourself struggling to put even a single coherent sentence together.
That’s been me more times than I can count.
Today, I want to share my journey of writing and creating eBooks on startups and the Internet of Things (IoT) — a path filled with as much inspiration as frustration.
Writing, they say, clarifies your thoughts.
I beg to differ sometimes; it often makes me want to smash my computer.
Photo by DANIEL BECERRA on Unsplash
Yes, I’m one of those who, despite having successfully published several pieces and stories on startups with technology, often finds the writing process nothing short of torturous.
Yet, here I am, continually drawn back to the keyboard, driven by the impact these writings might have.
Ernest Hemingway once described writing as sitting down at a typewriter and bleeding.
Trust me, it’s not as glamorous as Hollywood makes it out to be with its tales of tortured geniuses finding their muse after a life-changing epiphany.
It’s hard. It’s gritty.
And it’s anything but a flurry of spontaneous brilliance.
“Really? Again?” I often mutter to myself when words refuse to flow, a reminder of the countless times I’ve faced the daunting task of translating complex IoT concepts into accessible insights.
Popular culture might have you believe that creativity is a spontaneous burst of brilliance, but the truth is far more mundane.
It’s about persistence.
Photo by Matteo Rimoldi on Unsplash
It’s about sitting down, day after day, and committing to your message, even when self-doubt whispers persistently in your ear.
And that’s why I’m here, blogging for the first time.
Although I’m more at ease expressing ideas verbally, the discipline of writing demands a different kind of rigor.
It’s about structuring thoughts that are otherwise scattered by the relentless onslaught of digital noise — tweets, emails, the endless stream of content that demands our attention.
So bear with me.
As I venture through this digital dialogue, I’m not just trying to share tips on IoT or startup strategies, I’m also navigating my way through personal barriers and doubts, learning to embrace imperfection in my narrative.
You see, writing isn’t just about sharing knowledge — it’s a process of self-discovery.
It forces you to confront your ideas, to refine them, and, perhaps most importantly, to challenge the echo chamber of your own mind.
“Am I making sense, or am I just filling pages?” This question often haunts me late at night, a reminder of the ongoing struggle between expressing thoughtfully and simply filling space.
Photo by Spencer on Unsplash
Through my eBooks, I’ve aimed to distill years of experience in the tech industry into practical guides.
From my days at academic tenure to my venture at REDtone IoT, each phase of my career has contributed a chapter to my story.
These writings aren’t just reflections of past achievements; they are a continuation of my dialogue with the world, an attempt to contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving discourse of technology and innovation.
Writing these books has been a journey of facing my perfectionism head-on — a tendency to overthink that can kill creativity.
But I’ve learned to navigate this, to keep pushing through the self-doubt and the frustration because the reward is the connection made with readers, the sharing of insights that might spark someone else’s breakthrough.
Thank you for joining me on this ride.
It’s not just about the destination but the insights we gather and the stories we tell along the way.
I look forward to your thoughts, your feedback, and yes, even your critiques.
Dr. Mazlan Abbas 