The shift from performing to observing is a powerful framework. In a crowded digital space, everyone is trying to master the art of commanding attention, but very few focus on the skill of actually paying attention.
Stripping away the pressure to be 'entertaining' allows the real value to come through. It turns content from a performance into a tool for perspective, which is exactly why people stay for the long term. Great insight.
This is such an important point. We are constantly sold the idea that we need a "hook" or a "persona" to succeed, but those usually end up being the things that cause creator burnout.
How did you navigate the transition from feeling like you had to be "more" to realizing that your natural, "boring" voice was actually your greatest asset? Was there a specific moment where you felt that shift?
Great question! When I started seeing comments on my post here on Substack and receiving direct messages about how my writing impacted people a switch flipped.
Suddenly there was a crack in the paradigm I bought in to and I could see a possible alternative that was better suited for who I am.
It is such a powerful feeling when that switch finally flips. There is a huge difference between writing for an audience you are trying to "capture" and writing for a community you are trying to connect with. Hearing that your work is actually landing with people is the best antidote to the pressure of the numbers game. I am really glad you found that alternative path, and I am looking forward to reading more of your journey.
Thanks so much Gray and it is an amazing feeling. I’m glad we crossed paths in this wonderful neighborhood. Looking forward to learning more about you and work as well!
That makes perfect sense. Bringing in the academic perspective from your textbook is a great way to sharpen your focus. And honestly, the work journal is such a smart move as it is essentially your own personal reality check. It is interesting to see how effective writing is as a tool to anchor ourselves against external noise, whether for professional clarity or other forms of reflection. I look forward to reading your thoughts once you have them organized.
Ooh, this is good! I also really connect with it. I’ve had the mindset that although some enjoy my writing, I’m not made to build an audience/share my personality. I’ve been challenging myself to get out of this thought process and be more authentic. This post was really a mirror! Thanks for sharing. 💜
What a great article!!! Being the loudest is definitely NOT always the best. I especially love how you broke down the different ways one could bring their own unique voice to Substack. Brava!
Thanks Shannon! After doing the diagnostic recommended in your live, the results helped me surrender to my natural writing style, instead of writing in a way I think I should. I am excited about the fresh perspective.
It’s such a great exercise. I’m still learning how to let go of my qualifications (I spent a lot of years acquiring and honing them) and trust my voice more. It’s definitely a process, but been really fun, too ☀️
The shift from performing to observing is a powerful framework. In a crowded digital space, everyone is trying to master the art of commanding attention, but very few focus on the skill of actually paying attention.
Stripping away the pressure to be 'entertaining' allows the real value to come through. It turns content from a performance into a tool for perspective, which is exactly why people stay for the long term. Great insight.
This is such an important point. We are constantly sold the idea that we need a "hook" or a "persona" to succeed, but those usually end up being the things that cause creator burnout.
How did you navigate the transition from feeling like you had to be "more" to realizing that your natural, "boring" voice was actually your greatest asset? Was there a specific moment where you felt that shift?
Great question! When I started seeing comments on my post here on Substack and receiving direct messages about how my writing impacted people a switch flipped.
Suddenly there was a crack in the paradigm I bought in to and I could see a possible alternative that was better suited for who I am.
Thanks so much for reading!
It is such a powerful feeling when that switch finally flips. There is a huge difference between writing for an audience you are trying to "capture" and writing for a community you are trying to connect with. Hearing that your work is actually landing with people is the best antidote to the pressure of the numbers game. I am really glad you found that alternative path, and I am looking forward to reading more of your journey.
Thanks so much Gray and it is an amazing feeling. I’m glad we crossed paths in this wonderful neighborhood. Looking forward to learning more about you and work as well!
That makes perfect sense. Bringing in the academic perspective from your textbook is a great way to sharpen your focus. And honestly, the work journal is such a smart move as it is essentially your own personal reality check. It is interesting to see how effective writing is as a tool to anchor ourselves against external noise, whether for professional clarity or other forms of reflection. I look forward to reading your thoughts once you have them organized.
“Solitude restores me. Crowds drain me.”
The introvert community just collectively nodded and went back to reading. 😂
Happy Monday Shannon
Thank you very much for the mention :)
😂 I could totally see that.
Happy Monday Neela!
Thank you Shannon.
Ooh, this is good! I also really connect with it. I’ve had the mindset that although some enjoy my writing, I’m not made to build an audience/share my personality. I’ve been challenging myself to get out of this thought process and be more authentic. This post was really a mirror! Thanks for sharing. 💜
Thanks Kirby! It’s good that you’re pushing yourself to challenge the thinking that may not be serving you.
So glad you found something in it that you connected with 😊 that made my day!
What a great article!!! Being the loudest is definitely NOT always the best. I especially love how you broke down the different ways one could bring their own unique voice to Substack. Brava!
Thanks Shannon! After doing the diagnostic recommended in your live, the results helped me surrender to my natural writing style, instead of writing in a way I think I should. I am excited about the fresh perspective.
It’s such a great exercise. I’m still learning how to let go of my qualifications (I spent a lot of years acquiring and honing them) and trust my voice more. It’s definitely a process, but been really fun, too ☀️