Stop Trying So Hard
Let me break this down for you: the harder you try to go viral, the less likely it is to happen. Sounds backward, right? But hear me out. The internet is a strange place, and Medium is no exception. The secret to finding “viral topics”? Don’t chase them. Write like you actually have something to say.
I know, I know — everyone wants the magic formula. They want to know which headlines will get clicks, what keywords are trending, and what stories will rack up thousands of claps. But that’s not how it works. Here’s why — and what you should actually do instead.
Why Chasing Viral Content is a Terrible Idea
First off, writing just to go viral is exhausting. You’ll find yourself overanalyzing trends, trying to squeeze yourself into niches you don’t care about, and ultimately producing content that feels… fake. And readers can tell.
Even worse? The moment you write solely for clicks, you lose the heart of your voice. Your writing becomes a product, not a conversation. And here’s the kicker: nobody wants to read that.
The Secret to Real, Lasting Success
If you want your articles to pop off, stop focusing on the numbers. Instead, focus on connecting with real readers — the ones who actually care about what you’re saying. Because if you write for them, you’ll go viral anyway.
It’s like this: the people who go viral aren’t trying to. They’re just speaking their truth, sharing something valuable, or telling a story that hits home. Do that, and Medium’s algorithm will take care of the rest.
How to Find Topics That Actually Work
- Write What’s Real for You
The best topics aren’t found — they’re felt. What’s on your mind? What’s bothering you? What’s exciting you? That’s your topic.
For example, I wrote about how my Husky embarrassed me at a family function. Did I think it would go viral? Absolutely not. But it resonated with people because it was raw, relatable, and funny.
2. Share the Lessons You’ve Learned
Everyone loves a good “aha” moment. If you’ve learned something the hard way, share it. Personal growth, relationships, career advice — these are the stories that stick.
Pro tip: Don’t preach. Just tell your story. Readers love being part of the journey, not being talked down to.
3. Be Honest About Your Failures
People don’t want perfection. They want vulnerability. Write about the time you messed up, the thing you regret, or the lesson you learned the hard way. Trust me — honesty gets you more claps than polished, try-hard success stories.
4. Write Like You’re Talking to a Friend
Your tone matters. If you sound like you’re trying to impress someone, readers will click away. But if you write like you’re chatting with a friend over coffee, people will stick around.
5. Stop Thinking About Money
Medium isn’t an ATM. If you’re here just to make money, you’re in for a rude awakening. Writing takes time, effort, and passion. And the moment you stop obsessing over the dollar signs, you’ll start writing things people actually want to read.
Why This Works
When you stop trying to go viral, you free yourself to write authentically. And guess what? Authenticity is exactly what makes articles go viral. Readers crave honesty, depth, and connection. Give them that, and the algorithm will follow.
My Last Words
Forget chasing trends. Forget clickbait. Forget trying to crack the code. The best way to go viral on Medium is to stop trying so hard and start focusing on your readers.
Write what you care about, and write it well. The rest will take care of itself.