Welcome to my article “How I Made $10,000 Writing on Medium in 6 Months” When I first started writing on Medium, I wasn’t imagining yachts or early retirement—I just wanted to make enough to cover my coffee addiction (spoiler: it’s a serious one). Fast forward six months, and somehow, I’d made $10,000. Now, unless you’re Elon Musk, $10K might not sound life-changing, but for me, it was a game-changer. More importantly, it proved that with the right strategies, passion, and maybe a few late-night panic edits, writing on Medium can actually pay the bills—and then some.
In this article, I’m going to spill all the beans on how I made it happen. From choosing a niche to cracking the Medium Partner Program, I’ll break down the steps that helped me turn my words into dollars. You’ll learn how I figured out what people love to read (hint: it’s not another think piece on why mornings suck) and how I strategically monetized my content without sounding like an infomercial.
But let’s be real—this wasn’t all sunshine and viral posts. There were flops, moments of self-doubt, and a serious learning curve (did you know Medium claps are not equivalent to dollar bills? I learned the hard way). Whether you’re a budding writer looking to dip your toes into Medium or someone who’s been grinding with little to show for it, this article is for you. Stick around, and I’ll show you how I turned storytelling into a paycheck—and maybe how you can, too.
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Laying the Foundation – Why Medium Is a Great Platform for Writers
Let’s face it: the internet is overflowing with writing platforms. You’ve got personal blogs (great if you enjoy fiddling with WordPress settings for hours), social media (fun for bite-sized content and cat memes), and then there’s Medium—my personal goldmine. If you’re wondering why I chose Medium over the rest, let me break it down for you. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t just because their interface is chef’s kiss minimalistic (though that’s a nice bonus).
First, let’s talk about Medium’s ecosystem. Unlike your personal blog, where you’re shouting into the void hoping Google’s algorithm gods hear you, Medium comes with a built-in audience. Millions of readers are already here, actively looking for interesting, insightful, or downright entertaining content. It’s like walking into a party where everyone’s already mingling, and all you have to do is tell a great story to grab their attention. No awkward small talk, no waiting for your friends to show up.
Then, there’s the Medium Partner Program—a writer’s dream come true. Medium pays you based on how much time readers spend with your articles. Yep, you read that right. Forget about chasing ads or affiliate links (though you can add those too); Medium rewards you just for holding someone’s attention. It’s like getting paid to have a really good conversation—minus the pressure to maintain eye contact.
But the real kicker? Medium levels the playing field. You don’t need a massive following or a fancy marketing budget to succeed here. As long as you write something that resonates, the platform’s algorithms will do the heavy lifting, promoting your content to the right readers. That’s how someone like me—armed with nothing but a laptop, a love for words, and an unhealthy number of snack breaks—was able to earn $10,000 in six months.
In a nutshell, Medium is where storytelling meets opportunity. It’s where your words can travel far, find the right audience, and, yes, even pay your bills. So, if you’re ready to skip the hassle of self-hosting and dive straight into writing, Medium might just be the platform you didn’t know you needed.
Finding My Niche and Creating High-Quality Content
Ah, the age-old question: What should I write about? When I first joined Medium, I felt like a kid in a candy store. Should I write about productivity hacks? My favorite books? How to cook instant noodles like a gourmet chef? The possibilities were endless—and honestly, a bit overwhelming. So, I did what any logical person would do: I wrote about everything. Spoiler alert: this was not the best strategy.
Eventually, I realized that to stand out, I needed a niche—a sweet spot where my passion, expertise, and what people actually cared about overlapped. For me, that niche turned out to be personal growth and writing tips (with a side of humor because life’s too short for boring advice). Finding your niche is a lot like dating: you have to experiment a bit, deal with a few flops, and eventually, you’ll find the one that clicks.
Once I nailed down my niche, the next challenge was creating high-quality content. Now, when I say “high-quality,” I don’t mean Pulitzer Prize-winning prose. I mean content that’s engaging, valuable, and leaves readers thinking, “Wow, that was worth my time!” Here’s how I approached it:
- Crafting Killer Headlines: You can write the best article in the world, but if your headline is bland, no one’s clicking. I learned to create curiosity-packed titles like “How I Turned My Coffee Addiction Into a $10,000 Writing Career” or “Why You’re Failing at Writing (And How to Fix It).”
- Solving Problems: Medium readers love actionable advice. So, I made sure every article answered a question or solved a problem—whether it was how to boost productivity or how to grow as a writer. If you can make someone’s life easier, they’ll keep coming back for more.
- Writing Like a Human: No one wants to read a robotic, keyword-stuffed essay. I wrote the way I’d talk to a friend over coffee—informative, a little cheeky, and always relatable. (Pro tip: Sprinkle in some humor. Even a serious topic benefits from the occasional chuckle.)
- Formatting for Skimmers: Most readers don’t read—they skim. So, I broke my articles into short paragraphs, used subheadings, and added bullet points where it made sense. Easy-to-digest content wins every time.
- Consistency Is Key: Quality matters, but so does showing up regularly. I made a commitment to publish at least one article a week. The more I wrote, the more I learned what worked—and what didn’t.
Finding my niche and producing high-quality content didn’t just attract readers; it built trust. People started recognizing my name and sharing my articles. And guess what? Once you have an engaged audience, earning money becomes so much easier. So, take the time to figure out what you’re passionate about and what your readers need—it’s the first step toward turning your writing into a profitable venture.
Growing My Audience and Leveraging Medium Publications
If writing great content is the foundation of success on Medium, then growing your audience is the rocket fuel that takes your earnings to the next level. Let’s be real—no matter how brilliant your article is, it’s not going to make money if it’s just sitting there, gathering digital dust. That’s where audience growth and Medium publications come into play.
When I first started, my audience consisted of…well, me and maybe my mom (thanks, Mom). But I quickly realized that Medium has its own little growth hacks if you know where to look. The first step was understanding how to get my articles in front of more eyeballs. Enter: Medium publications.
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For those new to Medium, publications are like curated magazines where editors hand-pick content they believe will resonate with their audience. Getting your article featured in a popular publication is like being invited to the cool kids’ table in high school—but without the drama. These publications already have loyal followers, meaning your article gets instant exposure to thousands of potential readers.
I made it a priority to pitch my articles to publications that aligned with my niche. For example, when I wrote about writing tips, I submitted to The Writing Cooperative and Better Humans. If I was writing about personal growth, Mind Cafe and Illumination were my go-to spots. Here’s the secret sauce: I tailored each submission to fit the publication’s style and audience. Think of it as dressing for the job you want—except here, you’re dressing your article to impress the editors.
But publications weren’t the only strategy I used to grow my audience. I also focused on building my personal brand on Medium. Here’s how I did it:
- Consistency Wins Hearts: I made it a habit to post regularly, so readers knew when to expect new content from me. The more I showed up, the more people followed me. It’s like planting seeds—the more you plant, the bigger the harvest.
- Engaging With Readers: Medium is a community, not just a platform. I made it a point to respond to comments, clap for other writers, and follow people whose work I genuinely enjoyed. This wasn’t just about being nice (though that’s a bonus); it was about building relationships.
- Cross-Promotion Is Gold: I shared my Medium articles on social media, in newsletters, and even in relevant Facebook groups. This brought in readers from outside Medium, some of whom became followers.
- Internal Linking Magic: Whenever I published a new article, I linked to my older, related articles. This not only helped with traffic but also kept readers engaged with my content longer—which Medium loves.
- Experimenting With Tags and Topics: Tags on Medium are like SEO keywords for the platform. I tested different tags to see which ones brought in the most readers. Over time, I figured out what worked best for my niche.
Growing an audience on Medium takes time and effort, but once I had a loyal base of readers, everything changed. Articles started gaining traction faster, and Medium’s algorithm began to favor my work, recommending it to more people. The result? More reads, more engagement, and yes, more dollars in my Medium Partner Program account.
And the best part? Growing an audience isn’t just about the numbers—it’s about building a community of people who genuinely enjoy and benefit from your work. Trust me, there’s no better feeling than seeing comments from readers who say your writing inspired them, helped them, or even just made them laugh. That’s the kind of growth that keeps you going.
Monetizing My Writing Beyond the Partner Program
Ah, the Medium Partner Program—the magical land where writers get paid for holding someone’s attention. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a fantastic way to earn money, but if you want to turn your writing into a full-blown income stream, you’ve got to think bigger. Diversifying your revenue streams is like adding extra toppings to your pizza—it makes the whole thing a lot more satisfying. Here’s how I did it.
1. Affiliate Marketing: Because Why Not?
The first thing I explored was affiliate marketing. The idea is simple: you recommend products or services in your articles, include affiliate links, and earn a commission when readers make a purchase. I wasn’t out there hawking random products, though. I only recommended tools and resources I genuinely loved—writing tools, productivity apps, and even the occasional book that changed my life. (Pro tip: Honesty goes a long way. Readers can smell a sales pitch from a mile away.)
For example, in an article about how to write faster, I linked to Scrivener, my favorite writing tool, through an affiliate program. Guess what? Readers clicked, some bought, and I got a nice little bonus on top of my Medium earnings. It’s like sprinkling parmesan cheese on your spaghetti—you’re already eating, but now it’s extra delicious.
2. Freelance Writing Gigs: Medium as a Portfolio
Once my Medium articles started gaining traction, something amazing happened: people began reaching out to me with freelance opportunities. Companies wanted blog posts, entrepreneurs needed ghostwriters, and startups were willing to pay for email copy. The best part? Medium acted as my portfolio. I didn’t have to scramble to prove I could write—my articles were doing all the talking for me.
If you’re serious about monetizing your writing, leverage Medium to showcase your skills. Write about topics that align with the industries or niches you’d love to work in. Before you know it, clients will be sliding into your DMs faster than you can say, “Invoice sent.”
3. Launching Paid Products: Give Value, Get Paid
After building a decent following, I decided to create my own digital products. For me, that meant offering an e-book packed with writing tips and strategies for success on Medium. It wasn’t rocket science—just a repackaging of the knowledge I’d already shared, with extra insights and a touch of exclusivity.
I also dabbled in offering online workshops and templates for writers. Whether it’s a 30-minute webinar or a downloadable checklist, people are willing to pay for tools that save them time and effort. And because my Medium articles had already established me as an authority, these products practically sold themselves.
4. Brand Collaborations: Writing With Perks
As my Medium presence grew, brands began reaching out to collaborate. Some wanted sponsored content, where I’d weave their product into an article in a way that felt natural (because nobody likes reading blatant ads). Others asked for shout-outs or product reviews. These partnerships not only added variety to my income but also introduced me to new audiences through the brands’ promotions.
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The key here? Only collaborate with brands that align with your values and niche. Trust me, nothing destroys credibility faster than a writer who suddenly starts promoting random weight loss teas.
5. Building a Mailing List: The Long Game
Finally, I started building an email list. Why? Because algorithms are fickle, but an engaged mailing list is forever. I created a simple lead magnet—a free guide on how to write viral Medium articles—and promoted it in my articles. Readers signed up, and I now had a direct line to people who loved my work.
With an email list, I could promote my products, affiliate links, and even my newest Medium articles. It became an additional revenue stream and a safety net for when Medium’s algorithm decided to play hide-and-seek with my articles.
Lessons Learned and Tips for Aspiring Medium Writers
Ah, lessons learned—the part where I get to share all the mistakes I made so you don’t have to. Spoiler alert: my journey to earning $10,000 on Medium wasn’t all smooth sailing. It involved a lot of trial, error, and moments of wondering if my keyboard was plotting against me. But every stumble taught me something valuable, and I’m here to pass those nuggets of wisdom on to you, aspiring Medium writers.
1. Consistency Is Key (But Don’t Burn Out)
One of the first lessons I learned is that consistency matters—a lot. Medium rewards writers who show up regularly, whether that’s weekly, biweekly, or even daily (if you’re feeling ambitious). But here’s the catch: consistency doesn’t mean churning out mediocre content for the sake of meeting a quota. Quality always trumps quantity.
I found my sweet spot by committing to two articles per week. This allowed me to maintain a steady publishing schedule without sacrificing quality—or my sanity. So, find a rhythm that works for you, and stick to it like your favorite Netflix show on a lazy weekend.
2. Write for the Reader, Not Just Yourself
Here’s a hard truth: writing about what you love is great, but writing about what readers love is better. Medium is a platform where readers come to learn, grow, and be entertained. If your content doesn’t address their needs or interests, it’s unlikely to gain traction.
This doesn’t mean you should abandon your passions—it means you should align them with what readers are searching for. For example, instead of writing about “My Love for Vintage Typewriters,” try “How Vintage Typewriters Can Teach You the Art of Focused Writing.” Same passion, different spin.
3. Headlines Are Half the Battle
If there’s one thing I underestimated when I started on Medium, it’s the power of a killer headline. Your headline is the first thing readers see, and it determines whether they’ll click or keep scrolling. Think of it as the front door to your article—it needs to be inviting.
I learned to spend almost as much time crafting my headlines as I did writing the articles themselves. The key? Make them clear, intriguing, and benefit-driven. For example, instead of “My Medium Writing Journey,” try “How I Made $10,000 Writing on Medium in 6 Months.” See the difference? One sparks curiosity, the other…not so much.
4. Engage With the Community
Medium isn’t just a publishing platform; it’s a community. Engaging with other writers and readers can do wonders for your growth. Clap for articles you genuinely enjoy, leave thoughtful comments, and respond to people who engage with your work.
In my early days, I treated Medium like a one-way street—publish and move on. Big mistake. Once I started interacting with others, I noticed a significant uptick in my followers, engagement, and overall reach. Pro tip: Don’t just engage for the sake of it; be genuine. People can tell the difference.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment
Not every article will be a hit, and that’s okay. Some of my early pieces that I thought were pure gold barely got any views, while others I wasn’t sure about ended up going viral. The lesson? Experiment.
Try different topics, formats, and tones to see what resonates with your audience. Write listicles, how-to guides, personal essays—whatever feels authentic to you. Medium is a great place to test the waters and figure out what works.
6. Learn to Love the Analytics
Analytics—the unsung hero of every Medium writer’s journey. I’ll admit, I used to avoid the stats page like it was a dentist appointment. But once I embraced it, I realized how much it could teach me.
Your stats can tell you which articles are performing well, where your traffic is coming from, and what tags are most effective. Use this information to double down on what’s working and refine what isn’t. Data might not sound sexy, but trust me, it’s your best friend when it comes to growth.
7. Patience, Grasshopper
Finally, the most important lesson of all: patience. Medium success doesn’t happen overnight. It took me months of consistent effort before I started seeing significant results. There were times I felt like giving up, but I reminded myself that every article was a step closer to my goals.
If you’re just starting out, don’t get discouraged by slow progress. Keep writing, keep learning, and keep showing up. Success on Medium is a marathon, not a sprint—but the finish line is totally worth it.
Conclusion: Why Medium Is Worth It and How You Can Start Today
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations—you’re officially Medium-curious! By now, I hope I’ve convinced you that Medium is more than just a blogging platform. It’s a playground for writers, a treasure trove of opportunities, and, for some (hi, it’s me), a surprisingly lucrative side hustle. But let’s get real for a moment: is Medium worth your time and effort? Spoiler alert—it absolutely is.
Whether you’re an experienced wordsmith or someone who’s just discovered the joys of stringing sentences together, Medium has a place for you. It’s not about being the most poetic or having the fanciest vocabulary; it’s about connecting with people. If you have ideas, experiences, or even strong opinions about which pizza topping reigns supreme, there’s an audience waiting to hear from you.
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Here’s why Medium is worth it:
- You Get Paid to Write (Without Pitching or Begging for Freelance Gigs): The Medium Partner Program makes it possible to earn money from day one. No middlemen, no awkward emails asking for payment—just you, your words, and the algorithm doing its thing.
- Exposure Without the Hassle: Forget SEO-optimized headaches or competing with Google’s search gods. Medium’s built-in audience is already here, scrolling and searching for stories like yours.
- A Built-In Community: Writing can be lonely, but Medium’s ecosystem fosters connections. Readers can interact with your work, and other writers are just a clap or a comment away.
But here’s the real kicker: Medium doesn’t just reward good writing; it rewards authentic writing. You don’t have to be Hemingway. You just have to be you.
How You Can Start Today
Starting on Medium is as easy as signing up, picking a topic, and clicking “Publish.” But if you want to set yourself up for success, here’s a quick-start guide:
- Sign Up and Join the Partner Program: Create your account and enroll in the Partner Program—it’s free and takes about two minutes. Think of it as planting the seed for future earnings.
- Find Your Niche: Before diving in, ask yourself: What am I passionate about? What value can I offer readers? Your niche doesn’t have to be revolutionary—just something you enjoy and know well.
- Start Small: Publish your first article without overthinking. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be out there. Your writing will improve with time, and your audience will grow as you learn what works.
- Engage, Engage, Engage: Clap for articles you love, leave meaningful comments, and build relationships with other writers. Remember, Medium is a two-way street.
- Be Consistent: Whether you publish weekly or monthly, stick to a schedule. Consistency builds momentum, and momentum builds success.
Final Pep Talk
Medium isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme, and it’s not going to make you the next J.K. Rowling overnight (unless you have a secret wizarding world up your sleeve). But it is a platform where dedication, creativity, and a little hustle can lead to something amazing.
So, what are you waiting for? The next viral article could have your name on it. Or maybe your first post will resonate with five people who find value in your words—and honestly, that’s just as rewarding. Start writing today, and who knows? Six months from now, you might just be the one writing a blog titled, “How I Made $10,000 on Medium in 6 Months.”
And when you do, send me the link—I’ll be the first to clap.
Thanks a lot for reading my article on “How I Made $10,000 Writing on Medium in 6 Months” till the end. Hope you’ve helped. See you with another article.
