It Used to Be So Easy (Writing and Succeeding) — Now What?
With AI flooding the content world, writers and bloggers face tough competition. Discover how to survive—and thrive—in a saturated writing industry.
It was once simple—write, publish, succeed. Now? AI and endless competition flood the market. So how do real writers survive and actually make money today? Here’s the truth, strategy, and hope.
Introduction: It Was Simple, Until It Wasn’t
Once upon a time, if you had a keyboard and a unique voice, you could stand out.
Blogging was gold.
Content writing was respected.
And SEO wasn’t dominated by soulless keyword stuffing.
But now?
- Everyone writes.
- Everyone blogs.
- And worst of all, AI can generate 1000 words in 30 seconds.
So if you’re a human writer, a creative, a blogger, or a storyteller, the question hits hard:
Can we still survive—and succeed—in this new world?
Let’s not sugarcoat it. The game has changed. But you’re not out of the game yet.
1. AI Can Write, But It Can’t Feel
Let’s get this out of the way:
- Yes, AI is fast.
- Yes, AI is “smart.”
- But no, AI doesn’t bleed, dream, or love like you do.
Human writing has a soul.
Your job now is to double down on humanity:
- Inject personality.
- Share personal stories.
- Be sarcastic, witty, weird, vulnerable.
- Write like you actually care (because you do).
The more human your writing is, the less replaceable you become.
2. Don’t Compete With AI—Offer What It Can’t
What AI can do:
- Repackage facts
- Rephrase existing data
- Follow patterns
What you can do:
- Tell original stories
- Give personal insight
- Share local context
- Build real emotional connection
Don’t fight AI in its territory.
Fight like a writer, not a robot.
3. Build a Personal Brand (Not Just a Blog)
Let’s be honest: 1 blog in 2025 isn’t enough.
You need a brand.
That means:
- Consistent tone and personality
- Visual identity (logo, colours, vibe)
- A niche or voice people recognise anywhere
People don’t just follow blogs anymore. They follow humans they trust.
4. Pick a Niche and Own It Like a Boss
Generalist writers?
They’re drowning in competition.
But niche writers?
They’re thriving.
Why?
Because when you niche down:
- You speak directly to a hungry audience.
- You become a go-to expert.
- You reduce competition massively.
Examples:
- “Finance tips” → Too broad
- “Money hacks for single moms in their 30s” → Powerful niche
Own a slice of the internet. Make it yours.
5. Don’t Just Write—Package & Monetise
Blogging for ad revenue alone? That’s dead (unless you’re massive).
Here’s how smart writers make money now:
- Courses & ebooks based on their expertise
- Newsletters with premium subscriptions
- Consulting/coaching for niche topics
- Affiliate marketing with honest reviews
- Freelance work with loyal clients
You’re not just a writer. You’re a creator, curator, and communicator. Start thinking like a business.
6. Leverage AI As Your Assistant, Not Your Rival
Instead of fighting AI, use it:
- For outlines
- For idea generation
- For first drafts (that you rewrite and make human)
- For editing or SEO analysis
Treat AI like an unpaid intern.
You’re still the creative director.
7. Create for People, Optimise for Google
Many writers obsess about SEO—and forget the reader.
- Yes, use keywords.
- Yes, optimise headings.
- But don’t forget: Google chases user behaviour.
If your writing:
- Keeps people reading
- Makes them comment/share
- Gets bookmarked or linked
Then SEO will follow naturally.
Tip: Write like you’re having coffee with your reader.
8. Diversify Platforms, But Don’t Spread Too Thin
Don’t just publish on your blog and hope for the best.
Use multi-platform publishing:
- Medium
- Twitter/X Threads
- Substack
- Instagram or TikTok (for microblogging)
- Quora or Reddit (for authority building)
But don’t be everywhere at once.
Pick 2–3 that match your audience and voice.
9. Build a Tribe, Not Just an Audience
The future of writing isn’t just about going viral. It’s about building connection.
Start an email list.
Respond to comments.
Create community.
Make people feel seen.
Because loyal followers will:
- Read your stuff
- Buy your offers
- Promote your work
- Stick with you even when Google’s algorithm plays dirty
10. Be Patient, Consistent, and a Little Bit Delusional
Here’s the truth no one likes:
Success in writing takes time.
There’s no shortcut, no AI prompt, no hack that replaces:
- Writing daily
- Improving steadily
- Sticking through rejection
- Writing even when nobody’s reading (yet)
Most quit.
Few persist.
And those who persist… they win.
Conclusion: Yes, It’s Harder—But That’s Why It’s Worth It
The golden days of “write a blog, get rich” are gone.
But here’s the twist:
If you’re still writing now—with heart, grit, and a bit of madness—you’re already ahead.
AI can write.
Bots can churn.
But you can connect, inspire, and lead.
So if you want to survive—and thrive—as a writer today:
- Embrace your weirdness
- Monetise your message
- Own your niche
- Be human, not a keyword machine
Because yes, it used to be so easy.
But now it’s more meaningful than ever.
