Chapter 1: Introduction to Online Income Opportunities

Is the only way to earn a living as a creator by teaching others how to make money online? Many people believe this, but there are numerous avenues available for generating a full-time income as an online creator.

It’s often suggested that if you want to make money online, you should create a course that teaches others how to become wealthy. This narrative fills the internet, leading many to think that living a lavish lifestyle is just a course away. While selling courses and coaching can indeed be lucrative, it’s not the only option available.

But what if you prefer not to pursue this path? Does that mean you're destined to struggle financially? Here’s another perspective: teaching others how to earn money is not the sole means of making a living online.

Although I frequently write about financial topics, I’m not here to sell you a course or coach you—too much pressure for both of us! I enjoy sharing my insights about money without expecting anything in return. Medium serves as an outlet for my thoughts and helps reinforce my understanding of various concepts.

Interestingly, a significant portion of my online income comes from content that isn’t focused on money at all.

Chapter 2: Alternative Income Streams

Many years ago, I discovered the potential of creating simple tutorials for different software applications. By uploading these videos to YouTube with my affiliate links included, I found that I could generate income without needing to appear on camera. The process is straightforward: record your screen while demonstrating how to use the software.

What’s even better is the potential for recurring income. For instance, if someone signs up for ConvertKit through my link, I receive a commission for as long as they continue using the service. Imagine building a YouTube channel dedicated to ConvertKit tutorials—showing viewers how to effectively use the software. Over time, those commissions can accumulate, and on top of that, I can earn from the YouTube Partner Program.

Here’s a video that discusses this concept in detail:

Additionally, if software tutorials aren’t your thing, you can create a YouTube channel or blog on virtually any subject. Let’s say you have pet chinchillas—an exotic pet requiring specialized care. You could create videos or write articles discussing the best cages, food, and care tips, while linking products in your descriptions.

You might even compile frequently asked questions into a book and sell it on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, linking it in your videos. Before you know it, multiple income streams can emerge from your content, all without focusing on financial topics.

Chapter 3: Exploring Content Creation Platforms

If video creation isn’t appealing, you could start writing articles on Medium for free. Medium’s built-in audience can help your work gain traction, and you can include affiliate links as long as you disclose them. Alternatively, creating your own website might involve a small monthly cost, but it could pay off significantly in the long run.

For instance, an article I wrote years ago comparing microphones continues to generate income—over $400 last month alone!

This piece has generated revenue for over eight years. While not every article performs the same way, consistent content creation greatly enhances your chances of success.

Don’t want to focus on affiliate marketing? Platforms like NewsBreak and Medium will compensate you for your writing once you meet their criteria. You can also publish various types of books through self-publishing on Amazon or Barnes & Noble, limited only by your creativity.

If you’re willing to learn, consider assisting others with content creation as a video or audio editor.

In conclusion, while this post only scratches the surface of income-generating opportunities as a content creator, I hope to demonstrate that there are numerous ways to succeed beyond just teaching others how to make money.

If you're uncertain about where to begin, reflect on your own experiences. Create content that addresses your questions or solves your challenges. Share information about products you love, and choose a medium that resonates with you—be it writing, audio, or video. The money will eventually follow.

Here’s another useful video that explains how to make money on YouTube without creating your own videos:

Have you considered joining Medium yet? If not, think about signing up with my referral link to access my content and connect with thousands of other creators.

This article contains my referral links for various tools that I find invaluable for content creators, including ConvertKit and Medium. If you decide to try any of these products, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.