# Why "Just Show Up" Is Misguided Advice for Writers Today
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Chapter 1: The Flaws of "Just Show Up"
In the realm of writing advice, the phrase "just show up" is often touted, especially by self-proclaimed Medium gurus. However, this advice can lead to subpar work that does more harm than good.
Forcing yourself to write when you lack motivation can result in poorly crafted pieces that fail to engage readers. It's far more beneficial to wait for the right moment when inspiration strikes. If you find yourself staring at a blank page without a clear idea, it's perfectly fine to take a step back rather than churn out a mediocre article.
When you consistently publish lackluster content, you risk tarnishing your reputation as a reliable writer. Readers will begin to associate you with low-quality work, which is detrimental if you seek to build a loyal audience.
How will you market your course, designed to help others become successful writers, if your audience doesn't trust your expertise?
Section 1.1: The Illusion of Importance
A common trap for writers is the belief that every thought they have is groundbreaking. In reality, if you are a Medium guru, chances are that what you have to say has been expressed countless times before. Instead of hastily producing another piece filled with recycled ideas, take the time to reflect on your thoughts and their value to your audience.
Section 1.2: The Value of Taking Breaks
Surprisingly, there is merit in not writing every single day. Writing should be a joyful endeavor, not a burdensome task. The more you treat it as an obligation, the less enjoyable it becomes, leading to a decline in quality.
Many writers cling to the notion that daily writing is essential for building an audience. But who propagated this myth? The truth is, if you don't publish something for a day, very few will notice.
Chapter 2: The Benefits of Reflection
Taking a break can be incredibly beneficial for your writing. Use this time to brainstorm, develop ideas, and explore new angles on existing topics.
Rather than writing for the sake of publishing, focus on quality. Analyze your readership statistics to determine what resonates with your audience. Understanding their preferences allows you to produce more relevant content.
Don't fall into the trap of writing just to increase your article count. While it might feel satisfying to see the number of published pieces grow, prioritizing quality over quantity will ultimately serve you better.
Until next time,
-Alex
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