Tag: Writers On Writing

How I Rediscovered Joy in Writing Beyond Medium’s Algorithms

Finding Fulfillment in Writing Without Obsessing Over Medium’s Metrics

Photo by lilartsy on Unsplash

Initially, I was all hyped up about cracking the code to Medium’s algorithm and figuring out how to rake in some cash with my writing.

I mean, who wouldn’t be, right? Those tips and earning reports from other writers were like a siren song, pulling me in with promises of success and visibility.

For a while, it was great.

I devoured every article about increasing traffic, boosting engagement, and maximizing earnings on Medium.

I was determined to replicate the success stories I read about, so I started churning out content focused on “how to make money on Medium” and “how to gain more traffic.”

It felt like I was on the right path, contributing my voice to the chorus of experts and enthusiasts.

Photo by christopher lemercier on Unsplash

But then, something started to shift.

After three months of reading and writing the same kind of content, a sense of monotony crept in. It was like Groundhog Day, but with articles on Medium strategies.

The initial thrill of discovery faded, replaced by a growing sense of ennui.

I no longer felt that spark of excitement when I came across yet another article on Medium’s secrets to success.

It was all becoming a bit… well, boring.

Photo by Siavash Ghanbari on Unsplash

That’s when I realized I needed a change.

I decided to break away from the echo chamber of Medium monetization strategies and traffic tips.

I wanted to rediscover the joy of writing, to explore topics that genuinely interested me, without worrying about algorithms or analytics.

So, I ventured into new territories – writing travelogues and poems, sharing my personal experiences and creative expressions.

It was like taking a deep breath of fresh air after being cooped up indoors for too long. Suddenly, writing felt exciting again.

I was no longer constrained by the need to fit into a particular niche or follow a formula for success.

I was writing for me, and it was liberating.

Reading different stories on Medium added another layer of refreshment.

I was exposed to a diversity of voices and perspectives, reminding me of the vastness and richness of human experience.

Photo by Brad Neathery on Unsplash

It was a welcome change from the repetitive content I had grown so tired of.

In the end, this journey taught me an invaluable lesson: writing should be a source of joy, not just a means to an end.

It’s important to stay true to oneself and explore various avenues of creativity.

After all, the beauty of writing lies in its infinite possibilities and the unique stories each of us has to share.

So, here’s to new beginnings and the endless joy of writing about what truly matters to us!

-mazlan-

My Earnings Was Reduced by 30% Because of This!

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

When my monthly earnings were lower, I didn’t care so much when Stripe sent the money to my bank.

But when I received the December 2023 earnings, I was quite ecstatic with the amount stated in the Medium’s report (i.e., $55.62).

My Earnings Screenshot

It could already cover my whole year of MPP subscription ($50.00), and I was thrilled with that achievement.

But when I checked my Bank Account on Jan. 9, 2023, I was pretty confused. Why is it so much less?

Then, I realized that for my country, Malaysia, there is a withholding tax of 30%! Oh my!

Malaysia — 30%

That means my target to cover the whole year’s subscription must add another 30% to that $50.00 (meaning I need to earn more than $65.00).

So far, my earnings till Jan. 10, 2023, have reached $30.42, and I have 20 days left!

I should have covered that MPP annual subscription if I added my December and January earnings. But I can do more for this month — that’s my target.

About Author:

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

You can also follow my Medium Publications:

I have also published several eBooks, such as:

Or, if you prefer, check my bookstore at Gumroad — https://mazlanabbas.gumroad.com

Why Do We Love Writing?

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

In this digital era, where memories are often encapsulated in quick snaps and fleeting video clips, I am increasingly drawn to the timeless art of writing.

It’s not just a medium for me; it’s a sanctuary where I can express, explore, and connect in a way no snapshot or clip ever could.

Let me explain why writing isn’t just a hobby for me but a journey of the heart.

1. Crafting Memories Beyond Images

There’s something about a photo that captures a moment, but only writing can breathe life into it.

When I write about sunset, I don’t just describe the hues of orange and pink; I take you through the feel of the evening breeze, the scent in the air, and the emotions swirling within me.

Writing transforms a static image into a dynamic experience, inviting you to live the moment with me.

2. Leaving Footprints for the Future

Reflecting on a career filled with unexpected twists and turns, I feel compelled to document these experiences.

I imagine a future where my descendants thumb through my pages, getting a glimpse of who I was.

My writing isn’t just a record of my life; it’s a legacy, a way for future generations to connect with me long after I’m gone.

3. Guiding the Next Generation of Dreamers

As an entrepreneur, I’ve ridden the unpredictable waves of success and failure.

Through my writing, I aim to be a mentor from afar.

If my words can offer comfort, inspiration, or wisdom to someone at the start of their entrepreneurial journey, then every letter I type carries its weight in gold.

4. Conversations with My Inner Self

Writing is akin to a deep, reflective conversation with my soul.

It’s a journey through memories, a reflection of current states, and sometimes, a debate about future choices.

Translating thoughts into words often brings clarity and insight, offering a new perspective on my life experiences.

5. Sharing the Light of Knowledge

I firmly believe in the power of shared knowledge.

Writing allows me to pass on the lessons I’ve learned, the wisdom I’ve gained, and the insights I’ve gathered.

Each story I share is an open invitation: “Come, walk a mile in my shoes. Maybe it will lighten your path.”

A Symphony of Words

In conclusion, while a photograph captures a moment in time and a video brings back a past event, writing allows me to delve deeper.

It’s not just about recording events; it’s about baring my soul, sharing my journey, and forming connections.

I aim to reach out to others through my words, offering a piece of myself and finding a kindred spirit.

This magical connection, forged through the power of writing, is something no photo or video could ever replicate.

Writing is more than a mere expression; it’s a celebration of life, a bridge between past and future, and a beacon for those seeking to find their path.

In the world of fleeting images and momentary clips, my writing is a testament to the human experience’s depth and richness.

And in this, I find my most genuine joy and fulfillment.

How about you? Does writing resonate with you?

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

You can also follow my Medium Publications Aspiring Writer’s Journey, Influencer’s Journey, Startup Survival Journey, and IoT World.

How My Articles Able to Pay the MPP Subscription – (And How You Can Too)

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

When I decided to join the Medium Partner Program (MPP), I promised it would at least pay for itself.

Today, I’m excited to take you through my exhilarating journey on Medium – a tale of evolving from merely covering the Medium Partner Program (MPP) fees to earning profits that surprised me.

Let me delve into the strategies that transformed my Medium experience, focusing on follows, claps, comments, highlights, replies, and the pivotal role of reading time.

The Humble Start

When I joined MPP, my goal was modest: to earn enough to pay the monthly fee of $5.00.

The early days were a blend of excitement and uncertainty.

My articles, reflections of my experiences and thoughts, seemed like tiny boats I released into the vast ocean of Medium, hoping they’d find their shore.

Turning Followers into a Foothold

Gaining followers on Medium isn’t just about numbers; it’s about building a community.

I realized that each follower represented a potential regular reader, a supporter, and an engager.

So, I started reaching out, not just through my writing but through genuine interactions.

I followed authors whose work inspired me; in return, many followed.

This reciprocity wasn’t just about growing numbers and nurturing a mutual support network.

The Magic of Claps

On Medium, claps are more than just applause; they’re a currency of appreciation.

I learned that clapping for articles wasn’t just a passive action.

It said, “I see your work, and it resonates with me.”

By consistently clapping for articles I enjoyed, I spread positivity and subtly increased my visibility within the community.

Highlighting the Highlights

Highlights on Medium are like shining a spotlight on the parts that speak to you.

I began using highlights to mark phrases or ideas that struck a chord.

This showed authors what I appreciated in their work and helped me remember these golden nuggets.

It’s incredible how a simple highlight can lead to meaningful connections and conversations.

The Power of Comments and Replies

Comments and replies are where the real magic of engagement happens.

I made it a point to leave thoughtful comments on articles I read.

This wasn’t about leaving generic praises but about engaging in meaningful discussions, asking questions, or sharing how the article affected me.

Replies to comments on my articles were just as crucial.

They were opportunities to deepen connections and show my appreciation for readers’ time and thoughts.

Maximizing Reading Time

Medium values the time readers spend on your articles.

I learned that it wasn’t just about getting clicks but about keeping readers engaged.

So, I focused on creating exciting but also valuable and insightful content.

I paid attention to the length of my articles, ensuring they were long enough to provide depth but concise enough to maintain engagement.

The December Surprise

Then came December, a month that broke all my previous records.

My earnings were enough to cover not just one but eight months of MPP fees!

This breakthrough was a testament to the power of consistent engagement and quality content.

It was a joyous reminder that when you invest in the community, the community supports back in you.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Medium Writers

  1. Build a Community, Not Just a Following: Engage with your followers and follow others genuinely. It’s about creating a network of support.
  2. Clap with Purpose: Show appreciation for others’ work. It’s a simple yet effective way to connect. More claps indicate a standing ovation.
  3. Use Highlights Effectively: Highlight parts that resonate with you in others’ articles. It’s a great way to engage and remember key points.
  4. Engage Meaningfully in Comments: Don’t just read; participate in discussions. Your comments can open doors to new connections.
  5. Value Your Readers’ Time: Create content that keeps readers engaged. Quality and relevance are essential.
The image was created using Midjourney by the Author of Startup Journey

Read these two tips that help to multiply my earnings:

View at Medium.comView at Medium.com

Conclusion

I remain committed to these strategies as I continue my journey on Medium.

The joy of writing and the satisfaction of building a community make every moment on Medium worthwhile.

For those starting or struggling on Medium, remember that success is a blend of consistent engagement, valuable content, and genuine connections.

Keep writing, keep engaging, and maybe your next article will be the one that sets your earnings soaring!

Follow Mazlan Abbas’s Blog or download my latest eBooks here.

10 Tips in Creating a Successful Blog: Simple Steps and Key Insights

Photo by AltumCode on Unsplash

Blogging is not just a hobby; it’s a powerful tool for entrepreneurs, writers, and anyone looking to establish an online presence.

I have been blogging for many years.

I started using Blogger as my first platform. It’s not only a single blog site but multiples with different topics.

My blogs covered topics from technical to travelogue.

Later I moved from Blogger to WordPress and began to blog seriously and continuously with custom domain.

Medium is now my latest blogging platform.

This article simplifies and expands upon the process of writing a blog post, drawing from what I learned from various articles.

“Blogging is a conversation, not a code.” – Mike Butcher

Simplified Steps for Writing a Blog Post

  1. Choose a Compelling Topic: Select a topic that resonates with your audience. Your passion and knowledge about the subject should be evident to engage your readers.
  2. Craft an Engaging Title: Your title is your first impression. Make it catchy and intriguing to draw readers in.
  3. Outline Your Ideas: Plan your post’s structure. An outline helps organize your thoughts and ensures a coherent flow of ideas.
  4. Personal Connection: Share your personal connection to the topic. This authenticity builds a bond with your audience.
  5. Clear Layout: Use short paragraphs and bullet points for clarity. A visually appealing layout aids in reader retention.
  6. Write with Passion: Write about what you love. Authenticity in your writing will resonate with your audience and can help overcome writer’s block.
  7. Offer Solutions: Don’t just present problems; provide solutions or insights. This approach adds value to your readers’ experience.
  8. Optimize for Search Engines (SEO): Use relevant keywords and follow SEO best practices to increase your blog’s visibility online.
  9. Proofread: Always review your work. Typos and grammatical errors can detract from your credibility.
  10. Promote Your Blog: Share your posts on social media, guest blog, and use other promotional strategies to increase your reach.

“A blog is merely a tool that lets you do anything from change the world to share your shopping list.”

Photo by Hannah Grace on Unsplash

Concluding Lessons and Tips

  • Be Consistent: Regular posting keeps your audience engaged and helps build a loyal readership.
  • Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and engage with readers to create a community around your blog.
  • Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest trends in your niche and SEO practices to stay relevant.
  • Be Patient: Growing a blog takes time. Consistency, quality content, and effective promotion are key.

In summary, successful blogging involves a mix of passion, strategy, and engagement.

By following these steps and embracing the journey, you can create a blog that shares your insights and builds a community of like-minded individuals.

Remember, the most impactful blogs resonate personally with their readers and provide real value.

“Don’t focus on having a great blog. Focus on producing a blog that’s great for your readers.” – Brian Clark

Thank you for joining me on this exciting ride, and here’s to more blogging, growth, and unanticipated successes!

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

You can also follow my Medium Publications:

I have also published several eBooks, such as:

Or, if you prefer, check my bookstore at Gumroad — https://mazlanabbas.gumroad.com

From the World of Academia to the Realm of Entrepreneurship

Photo by Henry Be on Unsplash

Introduction:

As humans, we often stand at life’s crossroads, contemplating the avenues of security or the unknown trails of adventure.

While the allure of safety whispered through the mundane 9 to 5 routine, the siren call of adventure has always resonated louder within my spirit.

It was this irresistible call that nudged me from the structured halls of academia into the boundless, exhilarating realm of entrepreneurship.

As I transitioned through diverse roles – an academician, researcher, telecommunications manager, and entrepreneur, life unfurled a panorama of learning, evolution, and quintessential experiences.

Chapter One: The Solitary Explorer

The world is a book, with each journey turning a new page filled with unscripted stories and lessons.

My penchant for solo travel has been a kindred spirit in my quest for self-discovery and growth.

Each solitary expedition through bustling city arteries and tranquil countryside veins unveiled new horizons, imbibing a deeper understanding of the world’s diverse tapestry.

Meandering through unchartered territories, tasting the essence of myriad cultures, and exploring the relics of bygone eras, I absorbed the essence of humanity’s diverse ethos.

Every landscape I traversed, every new face I encountered, and every unique cuisine I savored added layers to my perspective, each experience a brushstroke on my life’s evolving canvas.

Chapter Two: The Entrepreneurial Voyage

Much like the first step in a foreign land sends a ripple of thrill, the voyage into entrepreneurship was a tumultuous yet exhilarating expedition.

This realm posed a chessboard of challenges, each move demanding innovation, resilience, and a ceaseless zeal for learning.

As I delved deeper into the entrepreneurial abyss, understanding the delicate dance between customer expectations and vendor capabilities became a revelation.

Each challenge surmounted not only honed my problem-solving acumen but also unveiled the myriad facets of being an employer.

Celebrating milestones amidst overcoming hurdles became the rhythm of my entrepreneurial journey.

PS: I have written 5 eBooks which you can download for free here.

Chapter Three: Navigating the IoT Frontier

The entrepreneurial tide further swept me towards the shores of the Internet of Things (IoT), an arena burgeoning with untapped potential and awaiting revolutions.

Embracing the role of an IoT thought leader, I found a new avenue to mentor the young minds, igniting the flames of innovation within them.

The exhilaration in this chapter of my journey stems from venturing into the endless possibilities that IoT holds, orchestrating solutions that could potentially redraw the blueprint of urban landscapes, simplify lives, and elevate businesses to novel heights.

Epilogue:

The decision to embrace adventure over the cozy lap of security might have its share of storms, but the rainbows following those storms have been breathtaking.

Every endeavor, whether it was wandering in foreign lands, navigating the complex maze of entrepreneurship, or pioneering in the IoT landscape, enriched my life with invaluable experiences and lessons.

IThe essence of adventure has been my greatest tutor, urging me to live life to the brim, forever curious, forever evolving.

Photo by Mario Gogh on Unsplash

Follow my personal blog – http://mazlanabbas.com