The Hard Truth About Your Writing and How to Improve It
Written on
Chapter 1: Understanding Reader Reactions
In the world of writing, many authors experience frequent rejection without fully grasping its implications. When I was in sales, my manager advised me to aim for 100 rejections daily. He understood something crucial: while it's impossible to face such a high number of rejections consistently without being a masochist, each rejection serves as a lesson.
As writers, we often encounter numerous rejections each day. However, the challenge lies in deciphering what these rejections signify. Here's insight into what potential readers might be conveying by ignoring your work, whether it’s articles, newsletters, or social media updates.
Section 1.1: Recognizing Reader Pain Points
People generally engage with online content for three primary reasons: to achieve goals, to solve problems, or for entertainment. However, I believe the fundamental motivation boils down to one reason: solving a problem. This problem often stems from emotional pain—be it boredom, confusion, or feelings of helplessness. It’s essential for writers to identify these pain points to connect effectively with their audience.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Need for Fresh Perspectives
The most prevalent issue faced by novice writers is the perception that they lack original ideas. Regular readers have become skeptical; they've encountered similar narratives before. Most headlines fail to spark interest, and if a piece does get clicked, it takes mere seconds for readers to determine its value.
To counter this, confront the truth: you may not have groundbreaking ideas. Nonetheless, your readers often forget much of what they think they know. Instead of searching for new concepts, consider presenting familiar ideas from a different angle—infuse them with your personal story to create a unique voice.
Section 1.2: Building Your Credibility
A common concern among writers is the fear of being questioned: “Who are you to tell me what to do?” Even if you project confidence, this question may linger in your mind. Readers prefer to hear from credible voices. Here are a few strategies to enhance your online credibility, even if you’re just starting out:
- Diversify Your Presence: Engage across multiple platforms like LinkedIn, X, Medium, and Substack. This demonstrates your commitment to the craft.
- Grow Your Following: Some may view followers as unimportant, but in the digital space, numbers matter. Embrace this aspect.
- Share Your Story: While you may be new to online writing, your life experiences hold value. Sharing your background can help build rapport with your audience.
Chapter 2: Embracing Rejection as Growth
If you perceive rejection negatively, it will undoubtedly weigh you down. Conversely, viewing rejection as a stepping stone places you ahead of many.
Write diligently toward your aspiration of establishing a successful one-person business, taking small, deliberate steps. For ongoing support and inspiration, consider subscribing to the free One-Person Business Success newsletter.
The first video titled "The UGLY truth behind being an indie WRITER!" delves into the harsh realities of independent writing and what one can learn from the experience.
The second video, "The Ugly Truth About Why You Can't Stay Motivated," explores the underlying reasons behind motivation struggles and offers insights on overcoming them.