Investing in Mindset: Why Self-Discovery Outweighs Views
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Chapter 1: The Reality of Declining Views
Losing readership is a common experience for writers, especially after a successful piece. I personally enjoyed a wave of recognition on Medium, particularly with one article that amassed nearly 6,000 claps. However, this initial success often leads to a downturn in views, which every author will eventually encounter.
While the reasons for this decline vary, what truly matters is cultivating a mindset that rises above the fluctuating statistics. To endure in the writing world, we need to shift our focus from numbers to personal growth.
Understanding what motivates our writing is vital for personal fulfillment.
Section 1.1: Motivations Behind Writing
There are generally two main motivations that drive individuals to write:
- External validation
- Personal expression and growth
When I seek external validation, I often become fixated on metrics such as views, comments, and earnings, viewing them as indicators of my worth. Conversely, when I write for personal growth, I concentrate on deeper, more fulfilling reasons—like self-discovery, storytelling, and a desire to connect with others.
Pursuing validation demands visibility to others, while writing for self-growth encourages visibility to oneself. Interestingly, discussions around self-expression seem less prevalent in the writing community, even though the quest for authentic expression and personal evolution is universal.
Subsection 1.1.1: Balancing Validation and Self-Expression
I often find it easier to focus on self-expression until external validation comes my way. This shift can lead to dependency on those metrics, reminding me to return my focus to the creative process rather than transactional outcomes.
Can anyone else relate to this struggle?
Chapter 2: The Value of Self-Discovery
The importance of knowing oneself deeply cannot be overstated. While algorithms may lead to temporary visibility, self-awareness fosters lasting growth and creative expression. By focusing on my journey as a writer, I ensure that my attention remains centered on personal development.
Section 2.1: The Power of Authentic Expression
Starting as a new writer is both exhilarating and liberating since there are no expectations. During times of declining views, I remind myself that I can reinvent my approach.
Being aware that I have nothing to lose allows me to communicate authentically, anchoring me to the present and transforming my writing into a powerful tool for connection.
The shift from worrying about views to embracing the opportunity for renewal can lead to profound insights.
Section 2.2: Choosing Authenticity Over Popularity
Throughout my life, I face choices that often pit popularity against authenticity. Whether as a speaker or a family member, the temptation to tailor my message for validation is always present.
As a writer, I can either wait for a surge in readership or maintain my creative spirit, regardless of external circumstances. Ultimately, genuine expression in the moment triumphs over attempts to manipulate outcomes.
Final Thoughts: The Long-Term Advantage
Understanding my authentic self is far more important than merely chasing views. This belief drives me to take risks with my content, creating a sustainable advantage for my writing career.
Every time I sit down to write, I feel as though I'm at a party, ready to break open my own piñata to share my innermost thoughts with readers. Writing with honesty and a focus on personal growth makes the process more rewarding, allowing me to swing freely at that piñata without fear.
Focusing solely on views is like attempting to engage with readers blindly. I want to keep my eyes wide open and embrace the truth, for in the end, it is my own self-awareness that truly counts.
The second video title: If you have ZERO Views, do THIS First - YouTube, emphasizes strategies for new writers to thrive despite initial setbacks.