As someone who managed to hit a spike of growth early on here, I know that I am the exception to the rule. In fact, I’ve published on several other platforms with almost identical types of stories and articles and it took YEARS to see anything worth talking about.
The fact of the matter is that it can be really hard to keep going when you feel like no one’s listening. I’ve spoke to numerous writers here that feel like they’re just shouting into the void.
As I often say, we’re all on our own timeline. Success is different for all of us, and there’s no guarantee when it will arrive, but despite that we have to keep going.
I love how honest and genuine this piece is, but more than that, I love how it finds the hope buried beneath the despair of trying to make it in this world as a writer. What an absolutely phenomenal article. Excellent work!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment! It really means a lot to hear this from someone who understands both the highs and the struggles of writing. You’re absolutely right…everyone’s path looks different, and it can take years to find an audience, if at all. But knowing that others feel the same way makes the journey feel a little less lonely. I truly appreciate your kind words and encouragement as always Bradley!!
Hey there! You make a great point here. I just went to check out your publication and subscribed so I could get to know what you're doing.
One thing that has worked for me and a lot of other newcomers who also saw an early burst of subscribers is finding ways to involve yourself in the broader community, or by hosting community events.
A lot of my initial growth came from me posting daily writing prompts in my subscriber chat for Flash Fiction February. Others have done weekly writing prompts or similar challenges. I'm planning a new even in May myself as well.
That of course, requires a lot of time that many people don't have. My other piece of advice would be to read, restack, and comment on other pieces you read here, just to get your voice out there and get to know others in the community.
You seem to post pretty consistently, so that's not the issue. I think creating more of a presence for yourself and your work in the community could go a long way towards hitting the growth you deserve.
There's no single winning answer here, but those are my initial thoughts. My DMs are always open if you'd like me to share anything more specific. I'm always happy to help!
On my MISSION STATEMENT post I sorta mentioned what I wanted to do here.
Until Substack becomes more streamlined between the app and computer version I will not go out of my way to try and use both at once. Nah that ain't me.
Honestly, some people see this place as a utopia but the constant "follow for a follow" or the "Ahh, I love the positive vibes here," gets really old when it is very othe not in your stream.
What keeps me writing is my need to get my creativity out. I love a beautiful sentence. I love something that is said well, whether in poetry, fiction, or non-fiction. I feel so blessed to be able to achieve great moments in my writing from time to time. It is work but its the best work.
This is a great, truthful article in the sea of false promises. Fantastic read.
For myself I had to consider this carefully before I started. I have burned myself out once before and it took over a decade before I could even pick up a book again, let alone the proverbial pen.
In order of importance, my reasons for writing are
1. Practice. I want to practice writing again to rebuild that atrophied muscle.
2. Build a portfolio. If I want to make money from my writing I need to prove that I can go the distance. That means showing up for myself and my readers and hitting every deadline with quality work.
3. Recognition. It's one thing to believe in myself that my writing is good, it's another for someone to think highly enough of it that they want me in their inbox twice a week. Paid recognition is fantastic, and a bit of pocket money is a goal, but free subscriptions are more important to me than paid ones because it means they still want to read my stuff even if they can't afford a sub.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate that. It sounds like you've put a lot of thought into your writing journey, and I admire your dedication...especially after coming back from burnout. I’ve been there myself. I love the way you prioritize practice and consistency. Showing up for yourself and your readers is such a powerful mindset. Wishing you all the best as you rebuild that writing muscle!
You got this! But write messy! that’s what I can say. It’s okay for things to be messy at times so you don’t burn out. Feedback is GOLDEN. OLD but true.
I just got back to writing myself. I was told I need to work on how I build my imagery, as I tend to be hasty with my writing…which is true! So I’m working on that now...
“Instead of obsessing over lost subscribers, focus on the ones who stick around—the ones who genuinely connect with your work. Because at the end of the day, those are the readers who matter.“ - ahh this really made me smile 🥹 i’ve found substack through someone i’ve been following on instagram and my impulsive adhd brain was basically just like… “wait…there’s a platform for writers and artists and people who appreciate art, so basically just generally GREAT PEOPLE LIKE IN THE GOOD OLD TUMBLR AND MYSPACE DAYS??? say no more!” - and so i just began to share my poems/journal entries on here - for the first time in my life, too 😮💨 i’m basically just here to dump hahah and to read everyone’s beautiful work and tell them how much i appreciate their stuff 🥹🖤 and if others resonate with MY ramblings, well, this will forever be the greatest reward ever and i still can’t wrap my head around how there’s actually people out there READING MY STUFF 😭❤️🩹
so, long story short: i love your honesty on this and how thoughtful and empathetic you’ve put this essay together 🖤 also, sorry for the wall of text hahaha xx
Writing on Substack is a wild ride—equal parts passion, persistence, and a whole lot of hoping people see what you have poured your heart into. I was lucky to stumble into Bradley’s community so quickly, finding incredible people who have made these first few days feel like home. The writing prompts have been a lifesaver, giving my page a little extra fluff while I find my footing. And truly, I appreciate every single person I have met and all the support I have received.
Even with all that, there are still days that are hard. I write to inspire others, to create something meaningful, I would be lying if I said I didn’t check my views and subscriber count. Because, at the end of the day, knowing I’m reaching people does make me feel better. And honestly? I thought publishing a story today would bring in lots of views. It didn’t. And it got to me more than I wanted it to. I’m trying not to be discouraged, but it’s just hard some days.
Even for those of us who have been kind of lucky, it’s still hard.
That being said, even if it only reaches one person, that one person matters. Stories have a way of finding the right hearts at the right time—and sometimes, even if that one person is ourselves, that’s reason enough to keep going.
That is well said T.P!! I feel the same, stumbling upon Bradley’s community has been the best support I’ve gotten. I especially like the last part you said. “Stories have a way of finding the right hearts at the right time—and sometimes, even if that one person is ourselves, that’s reason enough to keep going. “ that’s so beautifully said.
You’re absolutely right: the struggle of getting and maintaining recognition is real, and it feels like it’ll only get worse with time. Reader engagement is so difficult to achieve and so easy to lose.
I write here because it’s a new place to put my work in. It gives me a level of creativity that I don’t get from the fan-fiction sites I typically work with.
A harsh reality is the fact that the chances of me getting money I can live off of as a writer are slim. Though I’ve found a passion for editing, that typically requires an English degree to really get work (I’m not that lucky to get work otherwise), and I can’t afford to restart college. Not now.
The fight for recognition and engagement feels never-ending, and it’s frustrating how uncertain creative careers can be. But your passion for writing and editing is clear, and that passion has value, even if the industry makes it difficult to turn it into a full-time living. I hope you keep putting your work out there, because it deserves to be seen. Wishing you the best on your journey, and thank you for reading! ❤️
Well, eventually I hope to receive some feedback and find some connections that can inspire me to deepen my own understanding of life, as it unfolds for me.
But the thing is: my audience is a niche audience, making it harder in this ocean of thoughts. I am not sure if I will stay, I am not thrilled with the screaming masses on my homepage: read my work and I will read yours!! Post your substack here>> 🤷🏼♀️
It feels off. Maybe I am here to practice my authenticity in the middle of it all, hoping that reinventing the wheel will get me somewhere. 🤭
But in the end, I am someone who always needs a goal and here I can maybe practice my skills, ‘error here, succeed elsewhere?’ Who knows?
Loved this—your energy and message really hit. If you get a sec, I’d be honored if you checked out my latest post too. I think our content aligns in a meaningful way!
I love this and can relate quite a lot. Reality is often disappointing and I try to not let that get to me when I pour my heart into writing for people to read one day, I feel as though it is an ever uphill battle just to get even a single reader, but with time and some determination I believe that people will eventually read people who really want it and try their best. While social media promotes the already established, I prefer to use social media as, not so much a means to an end, but as a hub to place my thoughts into public space. I’ll leave my marketing to going in person with my published works to book signings and going in person to local book stores, perhaps then I’ll grow an audience!
Thank you for this. As someone who makes a living in marketing, I hate marketing, so I am just happy clicking "publish" and having it leave my head. I hope to stay.
That was so amazing! I’m new here so it was such great information and confirmation that I am here for “my right reasons”. To connect with other writers and share my writings.
As someone who managed to hit a spike of growth early on here, I know that I am the exception to the rule. In fact, I’ve published on several other platforms with almost identical types of stories and articles and it took YEARS to see anything worth talking about.
The fact of the matter is that it can be really hard to keep going when you feel like no one’s listening. I’ve spoke to numerous writers here that feel like they’re just shouting into the void.
As I often say, we’re all on our own timeline. Success is different for all of us, and there’s no guarantee when it will arrive, but despite that we have to keep going.
I love how honest and genuine this piece is, but more than that, I love how it finds the hope buried beneath the despair of trying to make it in this world as a writer. What an absolutely phenomenal article. Excellent work!
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment! It really means a lot to hear this from someone who understands both the highs and the struggles of writing. You’re absolutely right…everyone’s path looks different, and it can take years to find an audience, if at all. But knowing that others feel the same way makes the journey feel a little less lonely. I truly appreciate your kind words and encouragement as always Bradley!!
“The fact of the matter is that it can be really hard to keep going when you feel like no one’s listening.”
You spiked early, so how can you relate to me who has been here for a year with 13 subs.
Hey there! You make a great point here. I just went to check out your publication and subscribed so I could get to know what you're doing.
One thing that has worked for me and a lot of other newcomers who also saw an early burst of subscribers is finding ways to involve yourself in the broader community, or by hosting community events.
A lot of my initial growth came from me posting daily writing prompts in my subscriber chat for Flash Fiction February. Others have done weekly writing prompts or similar challenges. I'm planning a new even in May myself as well.
That of course, requires a lot of time that many people don't have. My other piece of advice would be to read, restack, and comment on other pieces you read here, just to get your voice out there and get to know others in the community.
You seem to post pretty consistently, so that's not the issue. I think creating more of a presence for yourself and your work in the community could go a long way towards hitting the growth you deserve.
There's no single winning answer here, but those are my initial thoughts. My DMs are always open if you'd like me to share anything more specific. I'm always happy to help!
U don't have to subscribe unless u like the shit I post (ie book scenes I post)
On my MISSION STATEMENT post I sorta mentioned what I wanted to do here.
Until Substack becomes more streamlined between the app and computer version I will not go out of my way to try and use both at once. Nah that ain't me.
Honestly, some people see this place as a utopia but the constant "follow for a follow" or the "Ahh, I love the positive vibes here," gets really old when it is very othe not in your stream.
What keeps me writing is my need to get my creativity out. I love a beautiful sentence. I love something that is said well, whether in poetry, fiction, or non-fiction. I feel so blessed to be able to achieve great moments in my writing from time to time. It is work but its the best work.
I like what you said, about the need to let out your creativity.
Thanks. Its true. I’m an accountant (to survive) so if I didn’t have the outlet I would go mad. Your article was really well written :)
Hello Ricardo, I used to be an accountant as well. I understand where you are coming from.
This is a great, truthful article in the sea of false promises. Fantastic read.
For myself I had to consider this carefully before I started. I have burned myself out once before and it took over a decade before I could even pick up a book again, let alone the proverbial pen.
In order of importance, my reasons for writing are
1. Practice. I want to practice writing again to rebuild that atrophied muscle.
2. Build a portfolio. If I want to make money from my writing I need to prove that I can go the distance. That means showing up for myself and my readers and hitting every deadline with quality work.
3. Recognition. It's one thing to believe in myself that my writing is good, it's another for someone to think highly enough of it that they want me in their inbox twice a week. Paid recognition is fantastic, and a bit of pocket money is a goal, but free subscriptions are more important to me than paid ones because it means they still want to read my stuff even if they can't afford a sub.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate that. It sounds like you've put a lot of thought into your writing journey, and I admire your dedication...especially after coming back from burnout. I’ve been there myself. I love the way you prioritize practice and consistency. Showing up for yourself and your readers is such a powerful mindset. Wishing you all the best as you rebuild that writing muscle!
You got this! But write messy! that’s what I can say. It’s okay for things to be messy at times so you don’t burn out. Feedback is GOLDEN. OLD but true.
I just got back to writing myself. I was told I need to work on how I build my imagery, as I tend to be hasty with my writing…which is true! So I’m working on that now...
So here’s to more writing!!
“Instead of obsessing over lost subscribers, focus on the ones who stick around—the ones who genuinely connect with your work. Because at the end of the day, those are the readers who matter.“ - ahh this really made me smile 🥹 i’ve found substack through someone i’ve been following on instagram and my impulsive adhd brain was basically just like… “wait…there’s a platform for writers and artists and people who appreciate art, so basically just generally GREAT PEOPLE LIKE IN THE GOOD OLD TUMBLR AND MYSPACE DAYS??? say no more!” - and so i just began to share my poems/journal entries on here - for the first time in my life, too 😮💨 i’m basically just here to dump hahah and to read everyone’s beautiful work and tell them how much i appreciate their stuff 🥹🖤 and if others resonate with MY ramblings, well, this will forever be the greatest reward ever and i still can’t wrap my head around how there’s actually people out there READING MY STUFF 😭❤️🩹
so, long story short: i love your honesty on this and how thoughtful and empathetic you’ve put this essay together 🖤 also, sorry for the wall of text hahaha xx
Not a problem, i loved it!! I'm glad that part made you smile!! 😊
i think this is just so important to keep in mind, too - the right people will always care 🥹❤️🩹
Agreed
And there’s the truth of the matter. Slow and steady, write for yourself, and find the joy on what you do.
As a newbie, I’d say this is a must read. Thanks a lot!
Writing on Substack is a wild ride—equal parts passion, persistence, and a whole lot of hoping people see what you have poured your heart into. I was lucky to stumble into Bradley’s community so quickly, finding incredible people who have made these first few days feel like home. The writing prompts have been a lifesaver, giving my page a little extra fluff while I find my footing. And truly, I appreciate every single person I have met and all the support I have received.
Even with all that, there are still days that are hard. I write to inspire others, to create something meaningful, I would be lying if I said I didn’t check my views and subscriber count. Because, at the end of the day, knowing I’m reaching people does make me feel better. And honestly? I thought publishing a story today would bring in lots of views. It didn’t. And it got to me more than I wanted it to. I’m trying not to be discouraged, but it’s just hard some days.
Even for those of us who have been kind of lucky, it’s still hard.
That being said, even if it only reaches one person, that one person matters. Stories have a way of finding the right hearts at the right time—and sometimes, even if that one person is ourselves, that’s reason enough to keep going.
That is well said T.P!! I feel the same, stumbling upon Bradley’s community has been the best support I’ve gotten. I especially like the last part you said. “Stories have a way of finding the right hearts at the right time—and sometimes, even if that one person is ourselves, that’s reason enough to keep going. “ that’s so beautifully said.
Thank you so much! I write to help others, inspire them, help them see they are not alone! I will find any way possible to do this!
Excellent article. Love it:-)
Your words are ringing in me. Thanks for these observations.
Im glad it did. Thank you 💕
You’re absolutely right: the struggle of getting and maintaining recognition is real, and it feels like it’ll only get worse with time. Reader engagement is so difficult to achieve and so easy to lose.
I write here because it’s a new place to put my work in. It gives me a level of creativity that I don’t get from the fan-fiction sites I typically work with.
A harsh reality is the fact that the chances of me getting money I can live off of as a writer are slim. Though I’ve found a passion for editing, that typically requires an English degree to really get work (I’m not that lucky to get work otherwise), and I can’t afford to restart college. Not now.
Thank you for writing! ❤️
The fight for recognition and engagement feels never-ending, and it’s frustrating how uncertain creative careers can be. But your passion for writing and editing is clear, and that passion has value, even if the industry makes it difficult to turn it into a full-time living. I hope you keep putting your work out there, because it deserves to be seen. Wishing you the best on your journey, and thank you for reading! ❤️
Well, eventually I hope to receive some feedback and find some connections that can inspire me to deepen my own understanding of life, as it unfolds for me.
But the thing is: my audience is a niche audience, making it harder in this ocean of thoughts. I am not sure if I will stay, I am not thrilled with the screaming masses on my homepage: read my work and I will read yours!! Post your substack here>> 🤷🏼♀️
It feels off. Maybe I am here to practice my authenticity in the middle of it all, hoping that reinventing the wheel will get me somewhere. 🤭
But in the end, I am someone who always needs a goal and here I can maybe practice my skills, ‘error here, succeed elsewhere?’ Who knows?
Thank you for your honesty, it’s appreciated 🫶.
Loved this—your energy and message really hit. If you get a sec, I’d be honored if you checked out my latest post too. I think our content aligns in a meaningful way!
I love this and can relate quite a lot. Reality is often disappointing and I try to not let that get to me when I pour my heart into writing for people to read one day, I feel as though it is an ever uphill battle just to get even a single reader, but with time and some determination I believe that people will eventually read people who really want it and try their best. While social media promotes the already established, I prefer to use social media as, not so much a means to an end, but as a hub to place my thoughts into public space. I’ll leave my marketing to going in person with my published works to book signings and going in person to local book stores, perhaps then I’ll grow an audience!
Thanks for an engaging post that doesn’t promise fame and fortune to everyone who ‘shares their stack below’.
As a newcomer to Substack I still don’t really know why I’m here. I started out wanting to use it as a semi-private journal - readers be damned.
But after a couple of posts I find myself putting in a lot of extra hours on a post to make it worthy of an audience (I hope).
I’ve never done social media, but I have to admit I suddenly grave the dopamine hits of likes and follows.
I have no allusions of ever making money here. But I do wish some of my posts could get comments just to see if what I’m writing is hitting home.
Having said that, the reward of forcing myself to improve my writing is enough for now.
Thank you for this. As someone who makes a living in marketing, I hate marketing, so I am just happy clicking "publish" and having it leave my head. I hope to stay.
That was so amazing! I’m new here so it was such great information and confirmation that I am here for “my right reasons”. To connect with other writers and share my writings.