You Only Need These 3 Income Streams as a writer

You see many successful writers earning thousands of dollars every month with different income sources online.

But what if I told you that they relies on just three category of income streams?

And all their income sources are under these 3 streams?

Yes!

If you analyse carefully, all the sources that they have falls under only 3 categories which make them $5,000 or more each month.

And as a writer you must also diversify across these 3 too.

These are:

1. Client Works or Freelancing

One of the most reliable ways to make money as a writer is by working with clients.

Businesses and brands constantly need content for their sales pages, blogs, websites, and marketing materials.

If you’re a skilled writer, you'll find work easily.

Pros:

1. You can set your own rates and charge what you deserve.
2. Work on as many projects as you can handle.
3. Collaborate with agencies and solo clients to maximize your earnings.

Cons:

1. Finding clients can be challenging especially if you are a complete beginner.
2. Income can be inconsistent—you may have to pass some months without work.
3. You have to adapt according to different clients’ styles and needs.

How to Get Started:

• Build a portfolio showing your best work.
• Reach out to potential clients instead of waiting for them.
• Follow up consistently and deliver high-quality work to retain them.

2. Writing Platforms & Paying Websites

Another income stream is getting paid by writing platforms and websites.

These platforms either pay per post or based on views and engagement.

Examples of writing platforms include Medium, HubSpot, Vocal, etc.

Examples of guest posting sites include Listverse, Longreads, Contently etc

Pros:

1. Perfect for beginners who don’t yet have an audience.
2. Some websites pay immediately after accepted.
3. Writing on platforms also help you attract clients.

Cons:

1. Your article must meet their standards or it get rejected.
2. Some sites take weeks to respond, and not all are trustworthy.
3. Earnings from platforms mostly depend on views and engagement, which takes time to grow.

How to Get Started:

• Choose one or two platforms and write consistently (1–2 posts per week or daily if you want).
• Select one website at a time in your niche that pay for guest posts, read their guidelines carefully, and submit your work.
• If rejected, take it positively and improve yourself.

3. Personal Brand

This is the last but most reliable one that turns writers into industry leaders.

Having a personal brand—through a blog, YouTube channel, or newsletter—gives you direct access to your audience and full right on your content.

Pros:

1. You have Multiple monetization options: digital products, courses, consulting, etc.
2. Opens doors to sponsorships and affiliate marketing opportunities.
3. Builds credibility and make you a trusted voice in your field.

Cons:

1. It may takes years to establish authority and grow an audience.
2. Requires expertise before you can successfully sell a product or service.
3. Trust is fragile—one mistake can damage your reputation permanently.

How to Get Started:

• Start a youtube channel or a Blogging website in a particular niche with proper hosting and domain and statt posting consistently.
• After getting some traffic, join affiliate programs of your niche and include links of it to your channel or blog.
• Approach to companies with a sponsorship offer and a decent rate.

Bonus: you can also create your digital products and sell but make sure to build authority and trust first

Summary

These three income streams are the foundation of every successful writer’s career.

Although I mentioned them one by one, if you noticed, each one is connected to other.

For example:

You can build your portfolio by publishing on platforms and guest posting.

If you have an audience on Medium or YouTube, you can promote your digital products or affiliate links there also.

A blog can serve as both a portfolio and a personal brand, giving you multiple ways to earn.

See how it all ties together?

All you have to do is start somewhere and gradually diversify.

Good luck!