WHAT IS THE LAZIEST WAY A WRITER CAN MAKE A RESIDUAL INCOME?
Typically involves some upfront work
WHAT IS THE LAZYEST WAY A WRITER CAN MAKE A RESIDUAL INCOME?
The "laziest" way for a writer to make residual income typically involves upfront work to create something that generates income passively afterward. Here are the top options.
1. Self-Publishing E-books or Microbooks
Why It’s Lazy. Once written, formatted, and published (e.g., on Amazon Kindle), your book can sell continuously without much effort.
Pro Tip. Focus on evergreen topics (e.g., writing tips, self-help, or niche interests) to keep earning over time. Automate promotion using scheduled social media posts or email campaigns.
2. Selling Templates, Worksheets, or Planners
Why It’s Lazy. Create a digital product once (like a story outline template, query letter format, or character-building worksheet) and sell it repeatedly on platforms like Etsy, Gumroad, or Canva.
Pro Tip. Add simple designs and clear instructions to make them attractive, and let platforms with built-in audiences do the heavy lifting.
3. Affiliate Marketing Through Writing
Why It’s Lazy. Write a blog post, newsletter, or article featuring affiliate links (e.g., tools, books, or software for writers). Earn commissions every time someone clicks and buys.
Pro Tip. Sign up for affiliate programs like Amazon Associates or tools like Grammarly. Write authentic reviews for better conversions.
4. Monetize Old Writing on Platforms
Why It’s Lazy. Post existing short stories, poems, or articles to platforms like Medium (via its Partner Program) or Vocal, which pay per view or engagement.
Pro Tip. Repurpose your blog content or unpublished work to make the most of material you’ve already created.
5. Create an Online Course
Why It’s Lazy. Turn a writing skill (e.g., outlining a novel, writing faster, or finding freelance gigs) into a course on platforms like Udemy or Teachable. It sells while you sleep.
Pro Tip. Start with a small, focused topic to create the course faster, and use pre-recorded videos.
6. License Your Content
Why It’s Lazy. License articles, short stories, or even templates to websites, companies, or educators who pay for the rights to use your work.
Pro Tip. Reach out to niche publications or companies looking for branded content to syndicate.
7. Low-Maintenance Patreon or Substack
Why It’s Lazy. Offer a subscription-based service for exclusive content like bonus stories, behind-the-scenes insights, or monthly Q&A.
Pro Tip. Post a few times a month to keep it manageable and set low pricing tiers for easy buy-ins.
The Ultimate Lazy Combo
Create one e-book, offer templates as a bonus, and promote both via a Substack newsletter with affiliate links embedded. This strategy layers multiple passive income streams from a single effort.