I’ll tell you a secret: I’m not a great writer, YouTuber, or designer. If anything, I’m an amateur blogger, video editor, and design enthusiast.

Yet, I’ve managed to earn income in all three areas with minimal skills.

Here’s how I do it in 2024.

Writing and Blogging

Blogging is my number one passion and source of online income.

As a non-native English speaker, I never imagined making money by writing in English. But thanks to Medium & Substack, that’s exactly what I now do.

Medium is the ultimate platform for amateur writers and bloggers like me. With the right mindset — consistency, persistence, and repetition — anyone can find an audience and earn money here. I write and publish 3-5 articles per week. It’s not about talent or training, it’s about showing up day after day.

In 2024, Medium’s Partner Program still makes it easy for regular writers to monetize their content and earn money.

Substack is my newsletter platform of choice, and for writers and bloggers who don’t need fancy marketing functionality like email sequences and automation, Substack is the best way to go to grow your email list, get your writing out there, and join a community of readers and writers.

YouTube Content Creation

I’m not a professional YouTuber by any means.

In fact, I don’t appear on camera or have any formal training in videography or editing. However I’ve managed to build two faceless YouTube channels with over 10,000 subscribers.

My secret is repurposing simple free tools to create engaging content.

I use iMovie or Canva for editing, Keynote for graphics and animations, and flourish.studio for data visualizations. Combined with a consistent publishing schedule, I’m able to earn a steady passive income from my channels.

In 2024, YouTube is still a great platform to build an online income stream. With Shorts, Community posts, and YouTube Premium revenue sharing, there are more ways than ever to earn as a casual YouTuber.

Design Work

Like writing and video creation, I have zero formal training in graphic design.

Zero. I don’t even have any idea what I am doing.

I don’t know how to use Photoshop or Illustrator. Yet I’ve managed to build a profitable side business selling digital products I “designed”.

Once again, my “secret” weapon is Apple’s Keynote software. It’s easy to use, free, and allows me to design professional-looking products.

In 2024, tools like Canva have also made graphic design more accessible than ever.

I sell my products on Gumroad, which has exploded in popularity with creators in the past few years. And if Gumroad isn’t your jam, platforms like Payhip or Lemon Squeezy can do most of the same.

Between Medium, Substack, YouTube, and Gumroad income, I earn a substantial monthly income with no specialized skills required.

The Bottom Line

We don’t need degrees, certifications, or years of experience to earn money online today.

With persistence, consistency, and the willingness to learn simple free tools, anyone can get started.

In 2024, platforms like Medium, YouTube, and Gumroad have leveled the playing field.

It’s now easier than ever to turn your passions into profits with just a laptop and internet connection.

The most important ingredients are motivation and a willingness to stick with it.

If I can do it, you can too!