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...or I can just go out and do some writing for people, and get paid in those thousands within a week.

Come on, let's not pretend that SteemIt is in any way profitable, especially once you realize it's taxable income.

or you can do both. I’m not going to debate as I’m just cashing out now. I don’t consider this to be full time job. It’s ok to give up though so understand. I just cashed out $1500 US and more is coming. Whether it’s taxed or not I’m still getting money. I used to sound just like you. In any case wish you luck, but you are wrong. I just got my gold and silver delivery today and it was paid in steem

Congrats. How much did you make on average, per hour, if I might ask?

My adventure with Steem turned out around $1.5/h spent writing (no commenting, socializing or networking included, which actually turned the majority of the profit).

I can't really consider this a success, personally.

Without putting money into the system you are basically working less than minimum wage. But then there are ways to gain more and
more momentum. After 7 months I guess I made around $5000 US. The hours spent could have been used makin 4 x that amount but thank goodness I have a full time job. It’s not for everyone. I would never recommend spending hours writing something for money. If it’s passion or a hobby then it’s worth it. I can’t get into the dynamics but I will tell you I felt the exact same way as you MANY times.

You're a realist. I appreciate legitimate comments positive or negative. Been investing, well, gambling on some momentum socks. Was reading a message board on a particular high volume, heavily pumped stock (ticker at best 😂). Anyhow, this one guy is asking people for emails and mobile numbers and I got muted for writing: "Looks like sanjeev is going to be trolling people with calls and emails. Is that pic really him? Dunno. Give him all your money, he's so smart and for sure is always right... Because he writes notes on a comment forum. At least Ask him to send you pictures of his trades if you're gonna give him personal info. Crazy"

That is crazy indeed. But, that's how the financial publishing industry keeps on turning.

And with Bitcoin being down some 25%... I think we'll see a lot of people cashing out this week.