Chapter 1: Taking the Plunge

The decision to dive into the vast ocean of writing can feel daunting. Just over a week since I ventured into Medium on June 19, 2024, it feels like I've traversed a lifetime of experiences. Writing has always been a significant part of my life; it brings me immense joy and serves as a medium for expressing my emotions.

Despite my long history of writing and sharing my thoughts on social media, stepping into this new realm ignited those familiar butterflies of anxiety. After all, embarking on a new adventure naturally brings a rush of nervous energy.

After signing up and creating my account, I was unsure about my next steps, leading me to publish my very first article. Little did I know that this initial submission was a key requirement for joining the Medium partnership program—an indication of how unfamiliar the process was to me.

In the following days, I explored Medium to familiarize myself with the platform, absorbing numerous essays and articles. I admired the polished writing styles and expressive prose but remained uncertain about how to navigate this new landscape.

When a reader applauded and highlighted my work, it clicked—this was the way to show appreciation for writers! I soon discovered that there’s an underlying system to this creative chaos. Various publications welcome contributions from writers, but it became clear that I would have to seek these opportunities actively.

The thrill of being accepted by the publication “Midform” was exhilarating. I made typical rookie errors in my initial draft: I removed all the editor's comments, mismanaged the capitalization of the title, and was unaware of the significance of a kicker. Thankfully, the editor, Dawn Smiles, was understanding and patient, offering me my first chance to publish.

By the end of my first week, I had successfully published 16 articles, received acceptance from 11 publications, and saw 12 of my pieces published. I’m incredibly grateful for the support from these platforms, especially as a newcomer.

My journey so far has also included tracking my statistics. On day four, I experienced the thrill of earning my first $1.71 on Medium—an exhilarating moment akin to winning the lottery! At the end of my first week, my total earnings amounted to $5.

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Now, will writing on Medium lead to wealth? It’s too early to determine, but one thing is certain: it will undoubtedly enrich my life. My motivation for writing is not solely monetary; it stems from a desire to share the stories that have shaped me throughout my life.

I am committed to continuing this journey, even if Medium isn’t the perfect fit for me. After one week and one day, I feel happy, proud, and content with my progress. New endeavors require time and dedication, and I’m ready to invest the effort necessary to succeed.

I’ll keep track of my statistics and updates, sharing my journey with you all. Please wish me luck as I navigate this writing adventure on Medium, and I extend the same wish to you. May we all achieve our aspirations and thrive together.

Be well. Namaste!

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