I give almost all my Medium earnings to my wife...as I do all my other income. I make the money, she manages it, and I don't argue. 28 years married, and we've never argued once about money.

This also means I don't worry about others using my words and ideas. A dandelion doesn't care where its seeds land; the seeds will grow and perpetuate its line far beyond the ken of the parent. That's compensation enough for me.

I can't speak for others, but I write because I have to write, even if I don't get any compensation other than a warm feeling of accomplishment. I'll submit four articles to the competition - if I win anything, it'll go to my Darling (minus any fees paid to have my articles properly edited) - she'll be happy, and life is good.