# Navigating Medium: Is the Algorithm to Blame for Your Struggles?
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Chapter 1: Understanding the Shift in Medium
Are you contemplating leaving Medium? Whether you're still on the platform, thinking of departing, or have already moved on, this narrative is relevant to you.
Recently, many writers have voiced their frustrations with Medium, claiming that the platform's algorithm has become biased and detrimental. Established writers are witnessing a decline in their visibility as their articles receive fewer views. Medium defends its algorithm, asserting that it aims to provide opportunities for emerging voices and prevent a monopoly by long-standing authors. The goal is to maintain a fair and competitive environment for all.
This situation has led numerous seasoned writers to consider leaving, with some already finding success on other platforms where their work continues to attract significant attention.
What About You?
Are you feeling the same urge to leave? It's understandable, given the discontent that has permeated the Medium community. When prominent writers begin to discuss exiting the platform, it signals a deeper issue at play.
This scenario echoes what occurred with Quora about six years ago. Once a favored destination for talented individuals, Quora saw its own struggles, particularly highlighted by the rise of popular figures like Sean Kernan, who proudly identifies as a "Son of Quora."
Chapter 2: Medium and Quora: A Parallel Journey
Reflecting on my own experience with Quora in 2017, I amassed around 33,000 followers. While that follower count remains, my lack of recent contributions has hindered my visibility. Interestingly, I still receive substantial views on past answers, despite not writing anything new for months.
There are two key factors that might explain this phenomenon. Firstly, my extensive history of over 1,600 answers on Quora contributes to my visibility. Secondly, my follower count on Quora is nearly seven times greater than my current Medium audience. This disparity explains why I continue to receive over 50,000 views weekly—something that seems elusive on Medium.
If these factors are dismissed, it raises the question: does Quora boast a superior algorithm compared to Medium? On Medium, the moment I stop publishing, I quickly lose views, whereas my older content on Quora continues to attract readers.
How to Increase Your Visibility on Medium
To thrive on Medium today, writers should consider two strategies: 1. Write frequently 2. Focus on dystopian themes
The advice to publish regularly is widely shared, but the current trend leans heavily toward dystopian narratives. Readers are increasingly drawn to content that explores dark themes and unsettling realities. This preference reflects a broader societal appetite for somber narratives, as audiences seek reassurance that their struggles are shared.
People often gravitate towards stories of misfortune—whether it's financial losses or the impacts of war—because it fosters a sense of connection amidst a chaotic world.
The digital age, while creating avenues for connection, has ironically contributed to feelings of isolation. Social media has made communication more superficial, leading to a rise in introversion. Prolonged solitude can lead to loneliness, which has become a prevalent issue among millennials and Gen-Z.
Interestingly, as we become more aware of mental health needs, we must acknowledge that some of the challenges we face stem from the very technologies we've embraced.
This is why Medium is currently thriving on darker themes. If your goal is to gain traction and earn money, consider exploring topics that evoke emotion and reflection. Writing about challenging subjects may even lead to increased promotion of your work by Medium, expanding your readership beyond the platform itself.
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