100% - writing isn't about having readers from day one. It's about learning how to express yourself. I've been blogging for 6 years now. When I started I had no idea what I wanted to talk about, so I just used it to flush out thoughts I had.

You will find an audience as you find your voice. What you hae to say will resonate as you get better at writing (±12 months of consistent writing is a good rule of thumb to start building a readership).

Forget money. Forget "professional network" even. Just focus on having conversations with people who are passionate about things you're passionate about. If you're lucky, you'll interview a hero of yours.