I often say writing is my first love, and I stand firmly by this proclamation. I started as a journalism major in college, but before I knew it, I was venturing into public relations. I hated it, and honestly, I wasn’t good at it.

Writing became a hobby. I pushed away those dreams of being a “real writer” to the furthest corner of my mind, and drifted through life trying to find my way. Like always, writing would find me in the hardest times and offer me a path forward. This became a necessity in the winter of 2010.

I survived a fatal car accident when I was twenty years old. The guilt and shame became too much to handle, and I couldn’t find the right words to convey how I felt to those around me. So, I did what any grieving person would do and started a Tumblr. This corner of the internet became a virtual refuge for me, and offered me temporary relief from my current reality.

Since the Tumblr days had worked so well, I ventured into the world of Squarespace. I wanted to write, create impact, and make money from my skills. Easier said than done, right? It’s been over five years since I created my first official blog, Aya’s Diary, and I’ve learned so many invaluable lessons. These lessons hold especially true as I venture into writing for Medium and can’t log on without seeing an article about the new rules for the partner program.

Keep in mind these three important lessons:

1. Choose pleasure over profit The joy of writing can be sucked dry when our main concern is making money. Instead, do your best writing knowing the rest, money included, will come.
2. Be true to you I’ve read a few articles encouraging people to mimic the styles of top writers. No shade, I believe this is terrible advice. It’s okay to be inspired, but it’s essential we use our own unique voice and style. You’ll find your audience, and your audience will find you
3. Be persistent I was disappointed after my blogs failed to gain the traction I desired. I was notorious for writing a piece, expecting viral fame, and being disappointed when I received only two reads overnight. Don’t be like me. Decide to be better. Keep writing, improving your craft, and being open to the journey even when you don’t have a huge audience clapping for you.

Next time you find yourself overly concerned about followers or yearning for Medium fame. Choose pleasure over profit. What important lessons have you learned on your journey as a writer? Let me know!