Get Paid to Write About Stuff You Love: How I Earn $1 Per Word Doing What I Enjoy
You ever feel like you’re pouring your heart into writing, but your bank account’s just not feeling the love? I get it. Writing’s supposed to be this freeing, creative outlet, but it can feel like a slog when you’re barely making coffee money.
What if you could write about things you’re already obsessed with—like health, fitness, or food—and actually get paid well for it? I’m talking $1 per word kinda well. Stick with me, and I’ll spill the tea on how I’ve made this work, plus a few legit magazines that pay writers like us to share our passions. No fluff, just real tips to help you turn your words into cash.
Why Writing for Magazines Is a Game-Changer
I used to think writing online was all about blogging or churning out posts on random platforms. Some folks make bank that way—like, $10,000 a month bank—but for most of us, it’s a grind for pennies.
Then I stumbled into pitching magazines, and let me tell you, it’s a whole different vibe. You get to write about stuff you actually care about, like mental health or nutrition, and the pay? It’s way better than scraping by on content mills. Plus, seeing your name in a legit publication feels pretty dang good.
Here’s the deal: magazines, especially in the health and lifestyle space, are always looking for fresh voices. They’ll pay anywhere from $0.22 to $1 per word for quality articles. I’ve tried a few, and it’s been a game-changer for my side hustle. Let me walk you through three I love and a few others worth checking out.
- Eating Well: Food Nerds, This One’s for You
If you’re the friend who’s always geeking out over meal prep or the latest superfood, Eating Well is your spot. They’ve been around for over 30 years, dishing out advice on food, diet, and nutrition. I pitched them an article about gut-friendly recipes last year, and they paid $1 per word. That’s $500 for a 500-word piece! If you’re a nutritionist, dietitian, or just a foodie with solid research skills, they’re super open to your ideas. Pro tip: read their submission guidelines like it’s your job. They’re picky about quality, but it’s worth it.
- Experience Life: Write About Feeling Good
Experience Life is like that chill friend who’s into yoga, therapy, and deadlifts. They publish 10 times a year and cover everything from mental health to fitness. I sent them a pitch about morning routines that boost energy, and they paid $1 per word, too. All you gotta do is email their editor with a solid idea. I spent a weekend reading their old articles to nail their vibe—think conversational but smart. Trust me, it’s like getting paid to write a journal entry.
- Natural Awakenings: For the Nature Lovers
Okay, Natural Awakenings is for anyone who’s all about that crunchy, nature-vibes life. Think articles on personal growth, fitness, or living greener. They pay $0.22 per word, which isn’t as high, but it’s still decent for a 1,000-word piece (that’s $220!). I pitched them a story about mindfulness hikes, and they loved it. Just make sure you email the editor directly and follow their guidelines to a T.
A Few More Worth Your Time
Wanna branch out? Here are some other magazines that pay solid rates as of May 2025:
- Outside: $0.35 per word for outdoor adventure and fitness.
- Runner’s World: $1 per word for running tips and stories.
- Spirituality and Health: $1 per word for soulful wellness pieces.
I haven’t tried these yet, but I’ve got friends who swear by them. Just check their “Write for Us” pages or shoot an email to the editor.
How to Not Screw This Up
Alright, here’s the real talk. Getting paid to write is awesome, but you gotta play it smart. Here’s what’s worked for me:
- Do your homework. Read the magazine’s guidelines and a few articles to get their tone. It’s like stalking their Instagram before a first date.
- Take your time. Don’t rush your article. Write it, sleep on it, then proofread like your life depends on it.
- Be original. These editors can smell AI or copied content from a mile away. Write from your heart, and they’ll respect it.
And please, don’t try to game the system. I knew a guy who tried spinning someone else’s article, and he got blacklisted faster than you can say “plagiarism.” Just don’t.
Ready to Make Writing Pay?
Look, writing doesn’t have to be this starving-artist cliché. You can share your passion for health, food, or fitness and make real money doing it. Start small—pick one magazine, read their stuff, and send a pitch. I was nervous as heck the first time, but now I’ve got a few bylines and extra cash for my coffee addiction.
What’s one topic you’re dying to write about? Drop a comment or shoot me a message—I’d love to hear it. Let’s get those words out there and that paycheck in your pocket!
