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.

“Innovate” in 15 Ways

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

To all the innovators out there!

Innovate with purpose, solve real problems.
Innovate continuously, stay ahead of the curve.
Innovate boldly, disrupt traditional industries.
Innovate collaboratively, harness diverse ideas.
Innovate with empathy, understand customer needs.
Innovate through challenges, find unique solutions.
Innovate responsibly, consider ethical implications.
Innovate for sustainability, create lasting impact.
Innovate with agility, adapt to changing markets.
Innovate inclusively, empower all voices.
Innovate with resilience, bounce back from setbacks.
Innovate for scalability, plan for growth.
Innovate with foresight, anticipate future trends.
Innovate with passion, fuel your entrepreneurial spirit.
Innovate with gratitude, appreciate the journey.


You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

“Compose” in 15 Ways

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

Compose compelling narratives, captivate readers.

Compose with clarity, communicate effectively.

Compose persistently, hone your craft.

Compose with heart, stir emotions.

Compose original ideas, innovate storytelling.

Compose from experience, enrich your tales.

Compose with versatility, embrace various genres.

Compose collaboratively, blend voices.

Compose boldly, express your truth.

Compose imaginative worlds, spark curiosity.

Compose through adversity, build resilience.

Compose with purpose, inspire change.

Compose ambitiously, push boundaries.

Compose with focus, achieve excellence.

Compose dreamily, leave a lasting legacy.


You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

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.

“Build” in 15 Ways

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

Build innovative solutions, shape the future.

Build strategic plans, overcome obstacles.

Build resilience, thrive through challenges.

Build disruptive ideas, change industries.

Build creative approaches, solve complex problems.

Build analytical skills, make smarter decisions.

Build adaptability, stay relevant.

Build strong networks, foster collaborations.

Build global perspectives, capture new markets.

Build visionary concepts, lead trends.

Build from failures, strengthen foundations.

Build with purpose, drive meaningful change.

Build ambitious goals, achieve greatness.

Build efficient processes, optimize performance.

Build passionate teams, cultivate success.


You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

“Write” in 15 Ways

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

Write your thoughts, shape worlds.

Write through struggles, find clarity.

Write with persistence, discover mastery.

Write with heart, evoke emotions.

Write outside the box, uncover originality.

Write from mistakes, refine skills.

Write with adaptability, explore genres.

Write collaboratively, blend perspectives.

Write with determination, achieve publication.

Write with imagination, create wonder.

Write through challenges, build resilience.

Write with purpose, influence readers.

Write with ambition, set trends.

Write with focus, craft perfection.

Write your dreams, leave a legacy.


You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

“Read” in 15 Ways

Read widely, understand deeply.

Read diversely, broaden perspectives.

Read diligently, absorb wisdom.

Read passionately, ignite your imagination.

Read critically, sharpen your intellect.

Read continuously, foster curiosity.

Read adaptively, explore new realms.

Read together, share insights.

Read bravely, confront new ideas.

Read imaginatively, journey through worlds.

Read persistently, overcome barriers.

Read purposefully, gain enlightenment.

Read ambitiously, challenge your limits.

Read attentively, master knowledge.

Read voraciously, nourish your mind.


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

“Pen” in 15 Ways

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

Pen your thoughts, unlock creativity.

Pen stories, travel through worlds.

Pen insights, reflect deeply.

Pen emotions, touch hearts.

Pen discoveries, pioneer ideas.

Pen experiences, learn endlessly.

Pen adaptations, embrace change.

Pen together, create connections.

Pen bravely, voice your truth.

Pen fantasies, spark imagination.

Pen through challenges, build resilience.

Pen with purpose, influence minds.

Pen with ambition, surpass boundaries.

Pen with care, craft masterpieces.

Pen voraciously, feed your soul.


You can also check out my personal Blog here or the latest eBooks I have recently published — here.

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!