My Journey Through the Writing Landscape of Medium: To Niche or Not to Niche?
As I plunge into the vast sea of words that is Medium, I find myself asking a common question: “Do I need a niche?” I see countless writers crafting their pieces with expertise, each of them owning their corners of this expansive platform. And amidst this digital tapestry of thoughts, the question persists: Should I pick a niche for myself, or is it an unnecessary constraint on my creative journey?
The Niche Question in My Mind
The concept of a ‘niche’ is not alien to me. I know it to be a specialised segment of the market dedicated to a particular kind of product or service. On Medium, a niche would essentially mean the subject matter or theme that my writing consistently revolves around. I see niches everywhere – from AI ethics to Zumba fitness routines – and they’ve sparked my curiosity. What if I had my own? What if my words were anchored in a subject that resonated with me?
But then, I wonder: Do I want to limit myself? Do I want to confine my creativity to a pre-decided theme? As much as I see the appeal of having a niche, I also feel a tug from the other side – a call for unfettered creativity, a demand for my thoughts to flow freely, unrestricted by the bounds of a specific subject.
Pros and Cons: To Niche or Not to Niche
From my perspective, choosing a niche has its allure. It allows me to become a subject matter expert, creating a unique identity for myself. It brings clarity to my writing journey, narrowing down the endless array of topics to a select few that I’m passionate about. It also makes it easier for readers to associate my name with a particular field of interest, potentially boosting my visibility and engagement on the platform.
However, I also see the downsides. Having a niche may restrict my creativity, preventing me from exploring diverse topics that catch my fancy. It may lead to boredom and monotony, especially if I find myself losing interest in the niche I’ve chosen. It also runs the risk of limiting my audience to those specifically interested in my niche subject.
Amidst this exploration, it’s important to note that I’m one of those people who doesn’t and never has had a subject speciality. I’m a jack-of-all-trades, a polymath who knows a little about a lot. With 45 years of life experience and a degree in business management, a subject that encompasses a broad spectrum, I’ve amassed knowledge on an array of topics. This vast well of experience and knowledge acts as my muse, inspiring me to write about everything that tickles my fancy, instead of being confined to a singular niche.
Charting My Path
I believe the choice to niche or not depends on personal preferences and writing goals. I’m torn, but I see the value in both perspectives. As a lover of writing (but mainly reading), I simply enjoy the process of translating my thoughts into words. I don’t necessarily want to box myself into a niche; I want my creativity to soar freely, unrestrained by any topic.
On the other hand, I also see the benefit of carving out a unique space for myself, a corner of Medium that becomes synonymous with my name. I see the appeal of standing out in a sea of generic content, of becoming a trusted voice in a subject I’m passionate about.
So, here’s my approach: I’m going to start broad. I’ll dip my toes into different subjects, explore diverse themes, and let my curiosity guide me. If along the way, a particular subject captivates me enough to consistently write about it, so be it. That could be the birth of my niche. But if not, that’s perfectly fine too. After all, the joy of writing for me is in the process itself, not just the outcome.
As I tread this path, I find myself open to suggestions, always ready to learn from fellow writers, readers, and anyone willing to share their wisdom. After all, creativity thrives in collaboration. So, dear reader, feel free to share your thoughts. Do you have a favourite niche you think I might enjoy writing about? Is there a writing style you believe could enhance my prose? Do you have tips for navigating the vast world of Medium? I’m all ears. I believe that these discussions, these exchanges of ideas, will help me refine my craft, discover new avenues for exploration, and maybe, just maybe, find a niche that feels like home. Your guidance is both appreciated and eagerly awaited.
I feel quite sure there’s no right or wrong way to approach it. I think I’ve just got to keep writing, stay true to my passions, and let my journey unfold naturally.
