If You Leave Medium, You Can Always Come Back

Freelancing affords you freedom. Use it to traverse the internet.

I love the content library on here. Medium is one of the best writing platforms I have joined since June 2021.

I enjoy being a part of a community of writers and editors. Elizabeth Dawber’s article feedback gave me added confidence to apply for the Better Marketing publication.

Ellen McRae voices relatable freelance realities. Sean Kernan is a master of storytelling as he writes about self-development. And Tom Kuegler is that online friend who tells you like it is — he’s all hard truths.

I am still trying to find my place in the writing world. What’s my niche? What’s worth talking about on here? I am still figuring stuff out. And so is everyone else including, Matt Lillywhite. Matt is coming back to Medium.

Matt’s Comeback is Ironic.

When Matt first left, Tom Kuegler said he would be back with much confidence. In summary, Tom said there are alternative platforms for writers with good potential. But these sites are not much better. Two months later, he was right.

Things here are changing — for better or for worse — who knows? But most times, it’s better to rest, not quit. If your earnings frustrate you, post less often or walk away for a few months.

Unlike Tom, I don’t feel bad for writers who only create content for money. I am happy for them because they accept their truth. I am also glad they now realize that some platforms build their name, and other sites help them monetize their fame.

Matt’s Comeback Is Encouraging.

But not in the way you might think.

When most people quit their jobs, they do not get a chance to return. The best resignation letter wording. Contact with work friends and managers. Even new client referrals and training your replacement do not help in some cases. All because of your past employer’s ego.

It’s good that you, me, and all the other writers here can leave and return at any time. Benjamin Hardy takes the “one foot in, the other one out” approach to this platform. He went a whole year without posting; after stopping on September 10, 2020. Since the MMP rules have changed, he became active again in December 2021.

If you plan to do the same as Benjamin, you must publish one story every six months to remain in the partner program.

Matt’s Comeback Is A Sign To Take Risks.

Too many of us walk around with what-ifs and regrets in our hearts and on our minds. It is the reason some are quick to judge. How can you agree with someone’s decision if you never act on your gut feelings?

I do not judge Matt. And I welcome him back — because he is braver than most. He did more than leave. He declared his motivations and the possibility of us seeing his stories again. When he showed up, he made another statement. Acknowledged his mistake and addressed his followers with maturity.

Many people go from mistake to mistake with less enthusiasm. If you think Gary Vee is full of air, take inspiration from Matt’s handling of his leave and quick return. Risk is okay. Acknowledging a mistake is fine. Knowing what is on the other side of a what-if means one less thing to regret in the future.

We have a good thing here. If you feel like you are settling, make your profile — your writing portfolio and pitch lucrative clients. Or step away, grow somewhere else, and pop back in once every six months.

Someone here will miss you. But they will have your word to remember you. For me, I miss the 1-minute marketing articles of Geraint Clarke. All I am saying is do what is best for your pocket and mental health as writers and online creators.

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