Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of authentic writing and engaging with readers genuinely, rather than focusing solely on monetary gain or manipulating algorithms for traffic.

Abstract

The editorial discusses the shift in writing styles, noting a trend towards writing that prioritizes sincerity and reader engagement over SEO optimization and clickbait tactics. It argues that readers can discern the intent behind a piece of writing and that authenticity fosters a loyal readership. The author shares personal experience of consistent growth in readership and earnings by focusing on writing from the heart and connecting with the audience. The piece advises writers to understand their readers' interests and to nurture relationships with them, suggesting that this approach leads to a sustainable and fulfilling writing career.

Opinions

Writing with the primary goal of financial gain or manipulating algorithms is evident to readers and can lead to a decrease in organic readership.
Authenticity and emotional connection in writing are more valuable than SEO tactics or sensationalist headlines.
Relying on algorithms for traffic makes writers vulnerable to changes in those algorithms, which can negatively impact their visibility and success.
Building a relationship with readers by writing about topics they are interested in and engaging with them sincerely leads to a dedicated following.
The journey of writing is long-term and requires patience, with the payoff being a strong connection with readers and a sense of purpose.
The author believes that any writer can achieve success by writing authentically and focusing on their audience's preferences, not just those with exceptional talent or connections.

EDITORIAL

Write With Your Heart, Not Your Wants

Diminishing views and an algorithm against humanity? No worries.

I see an increase in stories and social media posts about how terrible writing has become.

Tales of silent halls and empty rooms spread throughout the lands. Bands of wordsmiths gather to lament and miss the days of old.

If you noticed a shift in the style of writing above, I did that with a purpose.

Writing is a conversation. As of all interactions, the human mind is tuned to sift out nuances such as sincerity and intention. You could tell right away that I put thought into the two sentences to depict a medieval setting.

Therefore, no matter how hard you try, if you write solely for the purpose of maximizing your monetary desires, or for any other reason, there is no way to hide it. It manifests itself in the way you write, respond to comments, and interact on social media.

Your readers will know.

While there may be nothing wrong per se, you will reap what you sow in the form of low organic readership. Humans are not digital assets that can be tinkered with in order to increase engagement or retention.

I crave authenticity, sincerity over fluff and rehashes. An emotional outpouring over clickbait content. The more you research into “techniques” to hook me, the more I know you are trying to manipulate me.

You cannot SEO me.

A meticulously crafted headline may bring in crowds like a popular club, but if the music sucks, everyone is going to take a piss and leave. They’ll most likely feel rickrolled and disconnect the next time they see your name.

And because you have been writing for yourself or for your agenda, your readership becomes chronically dependent on sources beyond your control.

Algorithms.

You rely on it to drive traffic, whether it’s through a search engine or a writing platform. Nobody clicks on your profile or stories of their own accord, and the 101 different types of social media link spam aren’t working.

Need examples? Look no further:

5 Spammy Ways to Get Attention for Your Writing on Facebook Groups

Gain unrestricted access to link drop secrets.

medium.com

You’d better hope that the next time the algorithm is changed, it is for the better.

It did not affect me

I’d like to be honest here, not because I’m arrogant. But because I’m worried that some of you might have misunderstood what writing means.

Throughout my time as a writer, I’ve been through periods where others were affected by “dropping” views or earnings.

I wasn’t affected in any way.

My readership and earnings grew month after month.

Sure, it is not huge; in fact far from it! But I rather go slow and steady like a koala climbing for the best eucalyptus leaves than to crash and burn like a shooting star.

The point here is I am not at the mercy of something beyond my control!

My message to you is this.

If I can do this, you can do it too.

There is nothing special about me. Just an ordinary nerd who dreams of being in fairytales. And no, Stephen King is not my best buddy.

You will most likely become exhausted and dejected if you continue to bulldoze your way through this literary journey.

I do not want this to happen to you.

What should you do?

Understand that as a writer, your job is to entertain, educate or inspire your readers.

As a wise writer, you know that the above happens on their terms, not yours. This means you should write about topics your readers are interested in.

When you first started writing, consider it a blank slate. Over time, you will discover the topics your readers like. These are the stories that receive more readership and engagement. Write more of the same topics. Soon your readers will become your followers.

Every writer is unique and so are the followers. These readers are the ones that know you and want to see more of your work, regardless of what the algorithm may recommend them.

Never make the mistake of taking your readers for granted. It is on you to continue to nurture the relationship. Be genuinely interested in them, just as you would for your friends. A common mistake is to not reply to responses.

Now let us take a step back and evaluate your current situation.

Do you know what your readers like?
Are you writing for them or yourself?
Have you been building your relationship with them?

When you know the answers to the above, the battle is already half won. All that remains to be done is to write with your heart for your readers, and they will come.

Be mindful that it is a long journey. Do not expect quick returns.

You will come out of this stronger, I am sure of that. I am here if you need someone to talk to.

Take care and write well.

I write full-time for you as it gives me purpose in life. Your support helps me to worry less about putting food on the table. Find out why.