I hate myself for my inability to resist clicking on the $5,000 a month etc. stories. Since I haven't read a single one that told me anything, or was worth the time spent reading it, I've promised myself that I'll go cold turkey and just stop clicking.

Thanks for your realistic and informative story. I've been on Medium almost four months--it's been a fantastic and rewarding experience, also very motivating. I have no expectations of big monthly sums, but a modest and gradual increase will be welcome.