The Art Of Crafting Communities
In Response To The Coffee Challenge; Why I Am Pro Shoutout Movement
When I joined Medium, I was unsure what it could mean. For me, it was a place to house all the intrusive thoughts in my head. Disbelieving for a minute that anyone would read them.
I discovered publications, followed them for a while. My inner voice screamed that I was not good enough. One day I had a boost of courage and dipped in my toe. It was a revelation to me, people I had never met reading and commenting on my work. Lovely encouraging comments to boot, Deb Fiore, Lena Ann, Carrie. A. Kelly, Pam Winter, Donnette Anglin, Ann van der Giessen EP McKnight, MEd to name a few.
Joining Coffee Times was the first time I encountered the shout-out. I understood what it was but was unsure of the purpose. It was a rule, so I did. The first time someone shout-out my article it felt like a prize. Someone took the time to read and share my words. What the heck.
Something changed. I started to enjoy finding articles to shout out. Finding other writers along the way, I may never have read otherwise. I now do a shout-out no matter where I am publishing.
Why is it a great idea? What’s in it for me?
It costs absolutely nothing.
Giving time and space for another writer in your article costs nothing. It needn’t take away from your article, especially if you choose something that compliments or has a differing opinion. Both of these things can enhance what you have written. Spark that conversation in the comments. Fosters engagement isn’t that all we want. To know you are not shouting into an abyss.
Building a community
One of the most beautiful finds during my journey on Medium has to be the sense of community I have found. Key, in my growth as a writer. Finding like-minded people to bounce ideas around. New and exciting writers. Who not only write what I do but also others who challenge my perspective.
Finding kindred spirits who lift me when feeling awful. Spending time reading new people who write with passion, humour or even raw emotion. Jan Sebastian, Barry Taylor, Tony Galbier. Cementing my love of words, boosting me up when I can’t or won’t see my worth Lena Ann Deb Fiore Ravyne Hawke. The ability to introduce new people to your work grows your following organically.
I learn so much
Now naysayers will say you learn while you read no need to shout out. I challenge that. I love to read, gaining so much from it. Shout-outs help raise it to the next level with an added opportunity to engage with the writer. Finding out about people is a gift. Adding their experiences to your own is meaningful. We all write for different reasons. To express our pain, make sense of the world or explore our deepest dreams/feelings. We all read for the same reasons, for the love of words and where they can take us.
As people, it's all about finding your tribe. Shoutouts help you find them and they help you, as you grow, support others. Build your community, support and encourage each other as you chase your dream. Find yourself in others, reach out ensure they know they are not alone. Nobody likes shouting unheard words into the abyss. Do your bit make sure its not happening.
Big thanks to Winston at Coffee Times for this prompt challenge not forgetting his great editorial team Vidya Sury, Collecting Smiles, Dr. Preeti Singh, Yana Bostongirl, Drashti Shroff, Marrisa W., and Sharing Randomly
I found this beautiful representation and had to shout it out Maria Rattray (I know it's a competition and I shouldn’t be showcasing someone else) I loved it and well what the hey.