Oh yes this I feel too John, and sometimes I feel its totally meaningless. Is Substack any different than other social media?! To be honest I don’t think so but I still hang in here. Why? I don’t know and I am not sure I will continue either. I love writing. The number of Subscribers is not important. The number of likes and comment plays a role, not big though. I have days and periodes with frustration. The algorithm and how some notes simular to mine go virtual and mine get like 15-25 likes?! I dont focus on it because it only harms you. Substack is not the main thing in my life anyhow. There are good people on Substack, and I also like to read and comment . I just dont allow it to completly take all my precious time.Living a good life with my love ones and a good health is number one, and will always be💟 Thank you for a very good and relevant article❣️
Thank you for sharing that so honestly. I think a lot of writers quietly feel the same things you’re describing. Some days it feels meaningful, other days it feels a bit like shouting into the wind.
For me, Substack is really just a place to write and connect with thoughtful people like you. The algorithms, likes, and numbers come and go, but the conversations and real connections are what matter.
And you’re absolutely right…. life, health, and the people we love will always be more important than anything online. I’m just grateful you’re here and part of the conversation. 🙏🤗✌️
I agree deeply with the struggles many writers face. It’s true that the journey of building an audience can be incredibly challenging, often filled with silence and self-doubt.
I have also felt the algorithm favors sudden spikes over depth. Your honesty about the reality of writing online is refreshing and necessary. It’s important to remember that every writer’s path is unique, and while some may find quick success, the value lies in the authenticity and depth of the work.
I am glad I stumbled upon your page I am going to subscribe and follow your writing !
Thank you for such a thoughtful response. You captured it perfectly the silence and self doubt are real parts of the journey. But authenticity and depth are what give writing lasting value. I’m really glad you found the page. I appreciate you subscribing.
I’m subscribing back and look forward to reading your work.
Thank you for your reply, Tony. I'm on the same page as you. Although I receive even less "likes," and almost never comments. Makes me feel sad. I used to be on opensalon and it was wonnnderful! Too bad it ended. Fabulous comments, made friendships easily and sharing our writing was fun, not a chore to see who responds, if anyone. I get you.
And now from one reader’s perspective. This reader knows that your writing is real. I know that it is thought out, maybe shelved until it feels complete while you work on something else. But you see or feel the difference in numbers where I see the difference in style. I don’t have to worry that you used ai to write your work. That’s not true with many writers who produce work nor do I have to google to prove a fact. It’s real vs paint by numbers. What you don’t see in your numbers or even replies is how often a column or daily thought is shared. Maybe I can see that numbers matter, because they do on here, but what about the things we screen shot or forward to a daughter? How do you quantify that?
Thank you, Mary, for saying that. It means more to me than you might realize. I often spend time contemplating my writing, sometimes letting a piece sit until it feels authentic. So, hearing that the authenticity shines through is incredibly important to me.
You’re also right about something many of us tend to overlook: numbers don’t always provide the full picture. A post shared with a friend, a screenshot, or a message sent to a daughter might not be visible on our dashboard, yet it could have the most profound impact of all.
I’m grateful that you notice the difference, and I’m grateful that you’re here reading. It’s because of people like you that I keep writing. I’m grateful that you’re a part of this community and that you supporting us. 🙏🤗✌️
Like throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing what sticks, I approach Substack similarly. I can’t really comprehend the algorithm, but I think it tends to reward famous people with lots of paying subscriptions, plus it gives them a lot of fake subscribers. All of us free people it basically ignores or it segregates us into groups of small-timers. Expecting fame and fortune on this platform is like winning the lottery—fat chance. Expecting constant stroking and adulation is also a pipe dream. You write well, and you are thoughtful, and you get nice comments from people most of the time, even if you don’t get hundreds of hearts. Take what you can get, and write for you! If other people happen to like what you say, all the better.
Unlike you, I do venture into politics when that is what I am thinking, and if someone doesn’t like that or wants to unsubscribe, that’s up to them. I used to worry about that, but I write what I think now. Your readers should not dictate how you express yourself creatively. If you want lots of readers, you can write inoffensively, but that gets boring, and it’s not entirely honest.
I do think writers get burned out on here, mostly when their expectations exceed their number of admirers. I see any number of them threatening to quit, and some of them do. It’s a loss for everyone. Sometimes it’s just a way to get people to say you count. So, before you quit, let me just say that you do count, and also, stop looking at those stats and concentrate on writing. If nothing else, you will have something to read in your later life, and you’ll see that you accomplished something.
Carole, I appreciate your honesty. You’re right… expectations can wear writers down if we let the numbers define the experience. In the end, writing what we truly think and feel is what keeps it meaningful. Like you said, if others connect with it along the way, that’s a gift.
It is a gift, and I appreciate all the wonderful, real people that I’ve interacted with in the almost two years I’ve been here. Have low expectations and be pleasantly surprised!
Thank you for this John.... Some days I love it here and some days I think "what the #@!* am I doing here"
After name change and closing down my other stacks I feel much less pressure. And I am not willing to 'running the race'. I just want to write what I want to write about, read the people I want to read and connect with nice people.
Yes, I have lost quite some subscribers... and had some feelings about that but I am not here for the numbers.
Thanks for voicing ,what I know, a lot of writers are feeling.
Thank you for sharing that so honestly. I think many of us have those same days… loving it one moment and questioning everything the next. What matters is that you found your own rhythm again. Writing what you want, reading who inspires you, and connecting with good people is what this space should be about. The numbers come and go, but authenticity stays. I’m really glad you’re here, and I appreciate you too. 🙏🏻
Hey, John. And I thought I was the "only one" who sometimes (more than not lately), cannot respond to posts because the "post" button is gone. Kind of creepy. I've also thought about starting a new platform, one that isn't built on "likes" or number of subscribers. One that's built on sharing, supporting other fellow writers and commenting in a positive manner. No politics, no selling, just authentic writing from real people. Thoughts?
Thanks, John! Most of the essays (it’ll be an essay memoir) are posted on my Elegant Bohemian Life…although I want to learn how to make my Memoir Moments (a child of the original) a paid thingy. So far, it hasn’t worked...
Yeah, me too. Until I forget & write for clicks and get pissed off. Then remember. Then forget again. I try to pretend there’s not a little attention hound in here somewhere, but obviously there is.
It’s all true and it’s all sad. I thought Substack would remain different and connection would matter. It still does to me, but I have already chosen to spend a little less time here.
I hate the soul-sucking of automation on this once-beautiful platform of artists. Now it's so much about how use tools to compete and twist money from subscribers. I hope there are enough of us who still care about authenticity and deep reflection & solid writing to keep that soul alive.
John - When I started on Substack, I didn't want followers or subs! That worked well for me; about a year ago, everyone started posting about numbers, scale, growth & building!
-That's when Substack became a business platform, rather than a place for interesting conversation with other users/members. Lately, I've noticed Substack is a sales platform, with many people using AI as a method to gain attention.
- You can call me old school, or you can call me whatever you want, but I'll stay on Substack, because there are genuine people on here, with something genuine to say!
I think many of us go through that. Sometimes stepping away is exactly what we need to come back refreshed. Glad you’re back and ready to roll. I’ve followed you as well.
Beautiful 💖. Regarding the Email 📨 Inbox 📥: I'm hoping Substack Provides an Option to Receive All Notifications within the Substack Private Email ✉️ Box ☑️. That will be Helpful 😃. Love from India, Ganga 🌹
Thanks, John. I agree with your thoughts about this...100%. And the weird thing to add to it, is sometimes the "post" button is not even there...so what's up with that?!?
Also, love to connect with you, as I write from my heart, wanting to share. Thanks!
Thanks, I really appreciate that. Sometimes these platforms get a little quirky—one minute the “post” button is there, the next it’s on vacation somewhere. 😄
"Build something brick by brick." "If it takes longer to grow, so be it." Authenticity matters and I totally get what you're saying. I too am building brick by brick. I tried the advice of posting to Notes every day for a month. Did it get me noticed? Yes, but not in the way I'd like. I had a deluge of men trying to hit on me, including one young enough to be my grandson. That's not what I'm on Substack for. Like you, John, if it takes longer by staying authentic and human, so be it. Of course, if a person is already famous, they're going to grow much faster. Fame has never been my goal. Real writing for people interested enough to read it is my goal. Thank you for your honesty. It's always good to know how others feel and think about the unfairness of life.
Ella, I really respect that. Building brick by brick may be slower, but it’s real. The right readers eventually find honest writing, and those are the ones that matter most. I’m glad we’re walking that path together.
Oh yes this I feel too John, and sometimes I feel its totally meaningless. Is Substack any different than other social media?! To be honest I don’t think so but I still hang in here. Why? I don’t know and I am not sure I will continue either. I love writing. The number of Subscribers is not important. The number of likes and comment plays a role, not big though. I have days and periodes with frustration. The algorithm and how some notes simular to mine go virtual and mine get like 15-25 likes?! I dont focus on it because it only harms you. Substack is not the main thing in my life anyhow. There are good people on Substack, and I also like to read and comment . I just dont allow it to completly take all my precious time.Living a good life with my love ones and a good health is number one, and will always be💟 Thank you for a very good and relevant article❣️
Thank you for sharing that so honestly. I think a lot of writers quietly feel the same things you’re describing. Some days it feels meaningful, other days it feels a bit like shouting into the wind.
For me, Substack is really just a place to write and connect with thoughtful people like you. The algorithms, likes, and numbers come and go, but the conversations and real connections are what matter.
And you’re absolutely right…. life, health, and the people we love will always be more important than anything online. I’m just grateful you’re here and part of the conversation. 🙏🤗✌️
I agree deeply with the struggles many writers face. It’s true that the journey of building an audience can be incredibly challenging, often filled with silence and self-doubt.
I have also felt the algorithm favors sudden spikes over depth. Your honesty about the reality of writing online is refreshing and necessary. It’s important to remember that every writer’s path is unique, and while some may find quick success, the value lies in the authenticity and depth of the work.
I am glad I stumbled upon your page I am going to subscribe and follow your writing !
Thank you for such a thoughtful response. You captured it perfectly the silence and self doubt are real parts of the journey. But authenticity and depth are what give writing lasting value. I’m really glad you found the page. I appreciate you subscribing.
I’m subscribing back and look forward to reading your work.
It’s a pleasure my friend
Thank you 🙏🤗✌️
Thank you for your reply, Tony. I'm on the same page as you. Although I receive even less "likes," and almost never comments. Makes me feel sad. I used to be on opensalon and it was wonnnderful! Too bad it ended. Fabulous comments, made friendships easily and sharing our writing was fun, not a chore to see who responds, if anyone. I get you.
Thank you Aaliya🥰 Its important for me to be honest🙂
Glad my my friend keep doing great work 🤗
And now from one reader’s perspective. This reader knows that your writing is real. I know that it is thought out, maybe shelved until it feels complete while you work on something else. But you see or feel the difference in numbers where I see the difference in style. I don’t have to worry that you used ai to write your work. That’s not true with many writers who produce work nor do I have to google to prove a fact. It’s real vs paint by numbers. What you don’t see in your numbers or even replies is how often a column or daily thought is shared. Maybe I can see that numbers matter, because they do on here, but what about the things we screen shot or forward to a daughter? How do you quantify that?
Thank you, Mary, for saying that. It means more to me than you might realize. I often spend time contemplating my writing, sometimes letting a piece sit until it feels authentic. So, hearing that the authenticity shines through is incredibly important to me.
You’re also right about something many of us tend to overlook: numbers don’t always provide the full picture. A post shared with a friend, a screenshot, or a message sent to a daughter might not be visible on our dashboard, yet it could have the most profound impact of all.
I’m grateful that you notice the difference, and I’m grateful that you’re here reading. It’s because of people like you that I keep writing. I’m grateful that you’re a part of this community and that you supporting us. 🙏🤗✌️
Like throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing what sticks, I approach Substack similarly. I can’t really comprehend the algorithm, but I think it tends to reward famous people with lots of paying subscriptions, plus it gives them a lot of fake subscribers. All of us free people it basically ignores or it segregates us into groups of small-timers. Expecting fame and fortune on this platform is like winning the lottery—fat chance. Expecting constant stroking and adulation is also a pipe dream. You write well, and you are thoughtful, and you get nice comments from people most of the time, even if you don’t get hundreds of hearts. Take what you can get, and write for you! If other people happen to like what you say, all the better.
Unlike you, I do venture into politics when that is what I am thinking, and if someone doesn’t like that or wants to unsubscribe, that’s up to them. I used to worry about that, but I write what I think now. Your readers should not dictate how you express yourself creatively. If you want lots of readers, you can write inoffensively, but that gets boring, and it’s not entirely honest.
I do think writers get burned out on here, mostly when their expectations exceed their number of admirers. I see any number of them threatening to quit, and some of them do. It’s a loss for everyone. Sometimes it’s just a way to get people to say you count. So, before you quit, let me just say that you do count, and also, stop looking at those stats and concentrate on writing. If nothing else, you will have something to read in your later life, and you’ll see that you accomplished something.
Carole, I appreciate your honesty. You’re right… expectations can wear writers down if we let the numbers define the experience. In the end, writing what we truly think and feel is what keeps it meaningful. Like you said, if others connect with it along the way, that’s a gift.
It is a gift, and I appreciate all the wonderful, real people that I’ve interacted with in the almost two years I’ve been here. Have low expectations and be pleasantly surprised!
That’s a great way to look at it. The real gift here is the genuine people we meet along the way.
Thank you for this John.... Some days I love it here and some days I think "what the #@!* am I doing here"
After name change and closing down my other stacks I feel much less pressure. And I am not willing to 'running the race'. I just want to write what I want to write about, read the people I want to read and connect with nice people.
Yes, I have lost quite some subscribers... and had some feelings about that but I am not here for the numbers.
Thanks for voicing ,what I know, a lot of writers are feeling.
I really appreciate you a lot 🙏🏻♥️🦋
Thank you for sharing that so honestly. I think many of us have those same days… loving it one moment and questioning everything the next. What matters is that you found your own rhythm again. Writing what you want, reading who inspires you, and connecting with good people is what this space should be about. The numbers come and go, but authenticity stays. I’m really glad you’re here, and I appreciate you too. 🙏🏻
Hey, John. And I thought I was the "only one" who sometimes (more than not lately), cannot respond to posts because the "post" button is gone. Kind of creepy. I've also thought about starting a new platform, one that isn't built on "likes" or number of subscribers. One that's built on sharing, supporting other fellow writers and commenting in a positive manner. No politics, no selling, just authentic writing from real people. Thoughts?
Not just you been seeing it too. And that platform idea? That’s real. Less noise, more truth. Writers supporting writers.
Yes, is that something you would be involved with? I’m currently in talks with a fellow writer...
Ruth, absolutely I’d be open to it. Would love to hear more about what you’re working on and see how we can collaborate
Ooooh, that sounds great, John! I'm also working/playing on another memoir about the Pacific Northwest...
Ruth, I love that Can’t wait to read it
Thanks, John! Most of the essays (it’ll be an essay memoir) are posted on my Elegant Bohemian Life…although I want to learn how to make my Memoir Moments (a child of the original) a paid thingy. So far, it hasn’t worked...
If we write for clicks, we have two options
Mindless Note, cute probably fake AI animal and/or nature scene plus catchy as Hell caption
-or-
Write only about writing and how Substack is for the birds
Personally, I’ve been eyeing that delete everything danger, zone button, and getting awful close to pushing it
Write for truth, not clicks… that why I do
Yeah, me too. Until I forget & write for clicks and get pissed off. Then remember. Then forget again. I try to pretend there’s not a little attention hound in here somewhere, but obviously there is.
We all have that voice...just don't let it lead. Be you!
YeH funny! That seems to be the problem why I don’t get no hearts you hit the nail on the hammer!
Subscribing to your Substack... lets’ try to change that
Thank you very kind of you John. I’ll try not to make you regret that
It’s all true and it’s all sad. I thought Substack would remain different and connection would matter. It still does to me, but I have already chosen to spend a little less time here.
It still matters—and it always will. Sometimes stepping back is how we protect what’s real. 🙏🤗✌️
I hate the soul-sucking of automation on this once-beautiful platform of artists. Now it's so much about how use tools to compete and twist money from subscribers. I hope there are enough of us who still care about authenticity and deep reflection & solid writing to keep that soul alive.
Well said 🙏
Thanks for this post John. I’ll take depth over velocity anytime.
You are welcome 🤗
Great post, John! Will share this up today.
Thank you, Lynn! I appreciate your kind words and sharing. Have a wonderful, relaxing, and enjoyable Saturday!
John - When I started on Substack, I didn't want followers or subs! That worked well for me; about a year ago, everyone started posting about numbers, scale, growth & building!
-That's when Substack became a business platform, rather than a place for interesting conversation with other users/members. Lately, I've noticed Substack is a sales platform, with many people using AI as a method to gain attention.
- You can call me old school, or you can call me whatever you want, but I'll stay on Substack, because there are genuine people on here, with something genuine to say!
I understand. I stay here for the genuine people and the real conversations as well. Thank you for helping this community become a better place. 🙏🤗✌️
Well written! I could relate to this post a lot. And I agree. It's better to grow slowly and build something real than win something hollow.
Thank you—I’m glad it resonated with you. Slow growth builds something real.
I think we have all been there. I took a six months break from Substack but now feel refreshed and ready to roll.
I think many of us go through that. Sometimes stepping away is exactly what we need to come back refreshed. Glad you’re back and ready to roll. I’ve followed you as well.
Thanks. It feels good to be fresh.
🙏🤗✌️have a creative and peaceful day.
Beautiful 💖. Regarding the Email 📨 Inbox 📥: I'm hoping Substack Provides an Option to Receive All Notifications within the Substack Private Email ✉️ Box ☑️. That will be Helpful 😃. Love from India, Ganga 🌹
That’s a great idea, Ganga! 🙏🤗✌️
Thanks, John. I agree with your thoughts about this...100%. And the weird thing to add to it, is sometimes the "post" button is not even there...so what's up with that?!?
Also, love to connect with you, as I write from my heart, wanting to share. Thanks!
Thanks, I really appreciate that. Sometimes these platforms get a little quirky—one minute the “post” button is there, the next it’s on vacation somewhere. 😄
that was quick! sheeeeesh!
funny…and true!
Hey John, why does your name sound so familiar? Did we connect in the past?
Yes, last year... It was about collaborating, and I don't know why it didn't happen. But it happening this year!
"Build something brick by brick." "If it takes longer to grow, so be it." Authenticity matters and I totally get what you're saying. I too am building brick by brick. I tried the advice of posting to Notes every day for a month. Did it get me noticed? Yes, but not in the way I'd like. I had a deluge of men trying to hit on me, including one young enough to be my grandson. That's not what I'm on Substack for. Like you, John, if it takes longer by staying authentic and human, so be it. Of course, if a person is already famous, they're going to grow much faster. Fame has never been my goal. Real writing for people interested enough to read it is my goal. Thank you for your honesty. It's always good to know how others feel and think about the unfairness of life.
Ella, I really respect that. Building brick by brick may be slower, but it’s real. The right readers eventually find honest writing, and those are the ones that matter most. I’m glad we’re walking that path together.