Crafting Words: June Reflections and July Aspirations
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Chapter 1: June's Writing Journey
The experience of writing on Medium can feel like a thrilling yet frustrating ride — a long wait for a brief moment of excitement. June was a month dedicated to putting pen to paper, embracing the practice of writing publicly. One aspect of Medium that resonates with me is the freedom to share unfinished thoughts without the pressure of perfection.
Having returned to the platform after a hiatus in 2023, I initially struggled to convey my ideas. The platform's dynamics left me puzzled. I often questioned the value of investing time into a piece only for it to vanish from visibility shortly after publication. I felt trapped in a loop, akin to a roller coaster ride with a lengthy wait for fleeting satisfaction.
During this time, I pondered what type of writing would gain traction. Was it merely about reciprocal reading and hoping for algorithmic favor? It seemed to mirror a YouTube-like environment tailored for writers. My focus was too heavily on the mechanics behind the scenes rather than the craft itself, leading to a creative block. I found myself disconnected from my core motivations.
Section 1.1: Understanding Medium's Unique Landscape
Writing on Medium differs significantly from traditional outlets like newspapers or journals. It demands a distinct voice, and determining how to fit into that space can be challenging. I have a wealth of knowledge drawn from over two decades in the equine industry, sharing insights on horse behavior and management. While there are numerous platforms for my niche, Medium often feels misaligned with my audience, as many readers lack direct interaction with horses.
Medium seeks relatable content but doesn't necessarily prioritize expertise unless it resonates with a broader audience. This made me feel restricted in my writing choices, questioning whether my efforts would yield meaningful engagement compared to other platforms. I was frustrated to see stories about horses from individuals with no real connection to the subject garnering more attention than my work.
In response, I decided to step back and evaluate my presence on Medium. This break allowed me to rethink my approach to writing and how to engage non-horse enthusiasts. I set myself a challenge: to present equine topics in a way that resonates with a wider audience.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Challenge of Relatability
Chapter 2: Shifting Focus and Embracing Practice
My main goal for June was to freely express my thoughts without the burden of perfection. Ultimately, I managed to produce 28 articles, although the quality remains up for debate. One of my more unconventional pieces was about radishes, which might not have been elegant but served as a valuable exercise in unfiltered writing.
Despite earning only $23 from those articles, I found satisfaction in the experience of writing. I submitted my work to eight different publications, each offering its own unique community. Some publications aligned well with my style, while others did not resonate as strongly. Nevertheless, I appreciated the opportunity to share my work.
Publishing in my own outlet, That Creative Place, has been particularly rewarding. I enjoy the autonomy it gives me over when to release my pieces, which has proven crucial for attracting initial readership. Surprisingly, some articles performed well despite my publication's limited following.
The Plan for July: Refining My Approach
As I move into July, it's time to refine my approach and focus on the craft of writing itself. While I embraced free expression in June, I recognize the need for more structured writing. My goal is to create content that not only captures interest but also resonates deeply with readers.
There is a significant difference between writing something moderately engaging and delivering a piece that truly sticks with the audience. While I can't guarantee mastery, I am committed to improving my craft while maintaining my unique voice.
As I reflect on my June journey and outline my aspirations for July, I anticipate a fluid process. The ever-changing dynamics of Medium — from algorithms to reader engagement — make adaptability essential. I'm eager to see how my writing evolves by the end of July and how my personal challenge unfolds.
How did your June unfold? What drives your writing passion?
Keep the magic alive — Elle
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