Unlocking Writing Success on a Budget: Free Resources and Insights
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Chapter 1: The Misconception About Paid Courses
If you believe that spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on courses and community memberships is essential for achieving success, I understand your viewpoint. After all, who am I to dictate how you should allocate your hard-earned cash?
However, for those who are cautious with their spending or lean towards frugality (like myself), such expenses are often unnecessary. I’m not claiming that courses like Tim Denning's "Medium Mastery" lack value; they certainly provide useful insights. But it’s important to recognize that these courses are primarily designed as profit-generating ventures, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Now, you might be wondering, "If I’m not going to enroll in a course or subscribe to a service like 'Become a Million Dollar Writer,' how can I earn a living as a writer?"
I’m glad you asked! The answer lies in leveraging your research skills to discover FREE resources available online.
Section 1.1: Finding Free Learning Opportunities
You might be curious, "What exactly are these FREE resources?" Let me share a few examples.
While platforms like Udemy and Coursera typically charge for their courses, they also offer some free options. For instance, Udemy has a free writing course that can help enhance your writing abilities. Additionally, they provide free courses on digital marketing and more. It’s worth exploring what’s available.
Section 1.2: Tapping into YouTube's Wealth of Knowledge
Another treasure trove of free information is YouTube, often regarded as the ultimate destination for free content. You can follow channels like iWriterly, The Creative Penn, and Franklin Emmanuel, who regularly discuss topics related to publishing and digital marketing.
Chapter 2: Learning from Others
Beyond formal platforms, there are numerous individuals sharing their journeys right here on Medium. Many writers who successfully earn a living through their craft are eager to share their experiences. Notable examples include Kristen Walters and Aleena Pennington. Kristen, in particular, is known for openly discussing her business endeavors, making her profile a valuable resource for aspiring writers.
As you navigate Medium, keep an eye out for others who resonate with you; there are plenty of insightful writers to discover.
The main takeaway is straightforward. If you have the financial means to invest in courses or subscriptions to learn from someone you admire, go for it! There’s absolutely no shame in this approach. Many of us aspire to achieve that level of success someday. However, if you find yourself in a position where funds are tight but your desire to build a side hustle is strong, remember that a wealth of knowledge can be gained through diligent research and reading... for FREE.
It's important to acknowledge that while it might be possible to get by without spending anything, it’s not the most likely scenario. Once you’ve gleaned all you can from those generously sharing their wisdom, you may find yourself willing to invest in a book or subscription. Just remember to express gratitude to those who have contributed their time and knowledge.
Best of luck on your journey! Wishing you all the success and happiness you seek!