Chapter 1: My Journey on Medium

It has been over two and a half months since I embarked on my writing journey with Medium. I joined the platform during a pivotal period marked by significant changes in its Partner Program, which now requires a subscription to participate. Shortly thereafter, the Friends of Medium initiative was introduced. These changes sparked lively discussions within the community, and joining at that moment allowed me to connect with many active writers and learn from their experiences.

So far, I have earned just under $200 through my writing on Medium, averaging around $100 per month. This places me in the top 10% of earners, according to various reports. While this amount surpasses any other side income I’ve generated, my experience over these past months has led me to some important realizations that every new writer should consider for realistic expectations on what Medium can offer.

Section 1.1: Medium Is Not a Full-Time Income Replacement

While $100 may have different values depending on where you live, it’s clear that this amount cannot substitute a full-time salary. Residing in Australia, this translates to about 150 AUD. After taxes and fees, I would be left with approximately 100 AUD per month, which is around 1200 AUD annually—not nearly enough to sustain a household. Some may think that producing more content could increase earnings, and while that is possible, the effort required should not be underestimated.

Section 1.2: The Reality of Earning on Medium

Making money on Medium is straightforward; it involves writing and promoting your content. However, it’s far from easy. Your earnings are determined by the amount of time readers spend engaging with your articles compared to their total time on the platform. With countless talented writers on Medium, standing out is no small feat. It requires significant effort to gain visibility and attract an audience.

Section 1.3: Quality Content Alone Is Not Sufficient

The definition of "good content" is subjective, and with numerous writers competing for attention across various topics, simply being knowledgeable is not enough. Even if you are an expert in your field, your work must reach an interested audience that resonates with it. Thus, marketing and promoting your content is crucial. Personally, I often dedicate more time to reading and engaging with others' work than I do to writing my own. It’s clear that regardless of how excellent your writing is, it won’t matter unless it reaches readers.

Chapter 2: The Community Aspect of Medium

The first video titled How to Make MONEY on Medium (without writing more or better) provides insights into maximizing earnings on the platform. It discusses strategies that can help writers navigate their Medium journey effectively.

In my experience, I did not anticipate forming friendships through Medium. Yet, after 2.5 months, I have made more connections here than in my daily life. Friends from diverse backgrounds—USA, Iran, Pakistan, Greece, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and beyond—have enriched my understanding of different cultures. I have joined various social groups and received invaluable advice from seasoned writers, creating meaningful relationships along the way.

In addition to the friendships formed, Medium serves as a platform for growth. Prior to joining, I consumed free stories on Medium without considering a subscription. Upon subscribing, I realized the wealth of knowledge I had been missing. The platform is filled with inspiring stories from veterans, investors, and students, offering unique insights into various life experiences.

In conclusion, what have I learned in my brief time on Medium? It’s not merely a source of income; it’s a stepping stone towards financial independence. Medium can help cover costs for other ventures like subscription services or educational platforms.

This platform encourages creativity and offers opportunities to explore podcasting, YouTube, and other content avenues by repurposing your work. Connecting with creators worldwide expands your creative horizons and fosters growth.

Ultimately, the financial gains are secondary. The real benefit lies in the supportive community that offers guidance and encouragement daily. If leveraged correctly, Medium can pave the way to genuine financial security.

Join the community of writers who support one another across various social media platforms. This assistance ranges from writing tips to content promotion strategies. Approach this community with realistic expectations and a willingness to contribute.

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