I just got my third $500 bonus, and fully expect to get the final one next month. I've been here almost two years, and like you, I wrote furiously that first year -- one or two pieces a day, every day.

Now, I only do one to five per month,and still maintain a decent income. How? Once you build a following, the money follows, too. And, I seem to average at least one essay that goes viral every couple of months. My latest on the Derek Chauvin trial has garnered over 40K views, $1K (and still going). All of my pieces over the last few months have been curated, as well.

For the newbies, you're right. Just keep plugging away away and the readers and dollars will follow. My very first payment was only $3.00. So don't give up.