Turning Challenges Into Opportunities
How a writer can thrive in these uncertain times by connecting your skills to a partner's skills
If you read nothing else today, you MUST read this one. I’m betting guest writer Finn Tropy’s genius idea will empower you to increase your earnings sustainably. Read and see what I mean!
Making a living by writing stories or developing software isn't easy these days. The world is shifting beneath our feet, and industries that thrived for decades are now struggling to survive. Technical innovations like the Internet have completely transformed how we live and work, often leaving people scrambling to adapt.
When was the last time you held a printed newspaper in your hands? Once bustling with journalists and editors, local papers are closing their doors, forcing talented writers to reinvent themselves.
The situation in the tech industry is just as daunting. Over 570,000 tech employees have faced layoffs in the past three years, and highly skilled software engineers are suddenly looking for their next opportunity.
The competition for each new job is fierce, with hundreds of resumes flooding in for every open position.
But within these challenging times lies a golden opportunity —an invitation to reimagine what’s possible.
You can turn your skills into something more extraordinary by leveraging the power of partnerships.
Embrace the power of partnerships
The wave of layoffs has created a landscape ripe for collaboration.
Talented engineers and creative writers are looking for new paths forward, and now is the perfect time to come together. By combining complementary skills—like writing, storytelling, and software development—you can create a business greater than the sum of its parts.
Just 20 years ago, U.S. companies struggled to find software engineers. To attract the best and brightest, they invested in overseas talent, set up research centers in places like India, and sponsored H1B visas.
Today, outsourcing and rapid advancements in AI have made software development more accessible, yet the demand for unique problem-solving skills remains high.
That’s where you come in.
Why partnerships are a game-changer
I’ve written about complementary, multiplicative skills—how bringing together different strengths can help you stand out in a world that tries to force everyone into a normal distribution where the numbers on a spreadsheet are used to determine your future.
Salaries often have rigid caps, but you can break free from those limitations when you bring something unique.
You don’t have to be a master of every skill yourself. Instead, find someone who complements your abilities.
As a writer, you can contribute the art of storytelling, communication, and audience-building, while an engineer provides the technical expertise to bring your ideas to life.
The right partnership can turn individual passions into a sustainable business, allowing you to thrive in uncertain times.
Innovation at the intersection of writing and technology
Blending writing with technology doesn’t just open new doors—it unlocks a world of possibilities.
Imagine creating content-driven Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), launching a digital course, or developing AI-driven tools that solve real problems. The key is to think beyond traditional roles and embrace new business models that capitalize on your unique strengths.
Take Taplio as an example—an SaaS tool designed explicitly for LinkedIn creators. It streamlines the process of writing posts, engaging with others, and creating carousel content. The tool’s success wasn’t just about software; it was about understanding the needs of content creators and building a solution that spoke to them.
Thibault (Tibo) Louis-Lucas is an indie hacker pushing boundaries by combining creativity with technology. You can watch Arvid Kahl's interview with Tibo (or read the transcript) here. In it, Tibo explains how he sold his previous SaaS businesses for over $10M and came up with these new product ideas for Taplio.
As a writer, how can you streamline a process or solve a problem with the help of a talented software partner? What new possibilities could you unlock by blending storytelling with innovation? Can you imagine a new SaaS product for Substack creators?
How I found my perfect content partner
I'm sharing a personal story with you. You can read more details here.
While struggling with jet lag during frequent overseas travel, I stumbled upon some MP3 tracks that helped me relax and sleep. They were created by a talented UK person.
I saw an opportunity when Amazon launched its Alexa Skills Kit in 2016. I contacted him and proposed a simple idea: Could I use his MP3 files to create an Alexa skill?
Although he had never heard of Alexa before, he was intrigued by the concept. I gave him a quick demo over a Skype call, showing how he could play an MP3 file with a voice command.
We didn’t start with a complicated business plan. Instead, we focused on a shared goal: bringing his branded content to Amazon Echo devices. I built the skill, and he provided the audio. Over time, our project gained traction, and before we knew it, the skill generated revenue.
We formalized our partnership, split the profits 50/50, and kept things simple. He provides customer support, and I manage technology.
This partnership, born from a genuine connection and a shared vision, has thrived for eight years.
Steps to finding the right partner
It doesn’t have to be complicated.
Here’s how you can start:
Identify a problem you’re passionate about solving.
Find someone who has already progressed in that area or whose skills can complement yours.
Build trust gradually through small projects and collaborative experiments before committing fully.
Align your vision and goals, ensuring you share the same values.
Define clear roles and responsibilities that play to each partner’s strengths.
This method has worked for my 9-5 job and side business.
I like to keep things simple, as I have found that finding the right people is often the most challenging part of solving tough problems.
A vision for a better future
Waiting for the subsequent layoff notice isn’t an option in a constantly changing world.
You can shape your destiny by taking action today, even if you’re still working a 9-5 job. The key is to solve real problems, help those around you, and create solutions that matter.
Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Embrace the power of complementary skills and partnerships to multiply your value and build an inspiring future. Whether you’re a writer, engineer, or creator, tremendous opportunities await those who dare to think outside the box and innovate.
The world may change, but that doesn’t mean you have to be left behind. Instead, join forces with like-minded individuals and create something that lasts.
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Editor’s note: This story is based on real life, proven success. Don’t just read and move on—take a step today to figure out how this idea can increase your success. Ask Finn for help if you have questions or need clarification.
 | A guest post by
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DR--if anyone would have a handle on this, it would be you. You and Finn would enjoy each other, I think. I appreciate your comment!
I'm writing in support of the article. I've had over 30 partnerships with other companies, countries, non-profits, and solopreneus. They work. It's a great way to extend your reach; and increase profit margins and of course, profit.