Monetization Playbook #7: How to think of creating content by mining and farming.

Kick-start a content factory.

The internet is awash with content––much as California was perceived to be flush with gold in the 1840s. So how do you form a strategy to get in on the gold rush. Where do you start prospecting?

Luckily, we can draw inspiration from many a miner's commandments written in 1849 [source California historical society]

I. Thou shalt have no other claim than one.

Don't try to be an expert in everything.

II. Thou shalt not make unto thyself any false claim

Share what you know. Share what you believe. Share what you've researched. But don't blag it!

III. Though shalt not think more of all thy gold

Content isn't about you. No one cares about you. No one cares how well you're doing––unless, of course––you're inspiring and teaching others how you got there.

IV. Thou shalt not steal a pick, or a shovel, or a pan from thy fellow-miner

Austin Kleon tells us to steal like an artist. But "don't just steal the style, steal the thinking behind the style." But always give credit.

V. Thou shalt not grow discouraged, nor think of going home before thou hast made thy "pile

You have to stick at it. It'll flow. But not without pain!

Man cannot remake himself without suffering, for he is both the marble and the sculptor. ––Alex Carrel

Commandment IV has had the most significant impact on my style. Borrowing pick and shovels from communities such as Trends and Visualize Value has helped me reap my crop.