Outline of the Article:
Title: I Never Got Traction with My Writing Until I Gave Up These Things
Author: Tim Denning
Theme: Overcoming obstacles in writing by abandoning counterproductive habits.
Key Points and Examples:
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Asking Gatekeepers for Permission
Problem: Gatekeepers (e.g., publication owners, platform staff) are often unqualified or inconsistent.
Solution: Write on "permissionless" platforms (e.g., social media).
Example: The author researched gatekeepers’ LinkedIn profiles and found many lacked credibility (e.g., no audience, frequent job changes). -
Using Shortcuts (Engagement Pods, Bot Comments)
Problem: Artificial engagement (e.g., trading likes, buying bots) doesn’t build genuine audiences.
Solution: Focus on digital writing skills:
Strong headlines, concise storytelling, research-backed points.
Example: The author admits trying shortcuts but found real success only after prioritizing quality. -
Writing on Only One Platform
Problem: Over-reliance on one platform risks bans or algorithm changes.
Solution: Diversify platforms + build an owned audience (e.g., email list).
Example: The author was banned from a platform for “misinformation” and realized the need to spread his work. -
Switching Platforms Frequently
Problem: Chasing new platforms (e.g., Bluesky, Mastodon) wastes time.
Solution: Stick to established platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, X) that have longevity.
Example: The author mentions how startup platforms often fail, unlike LinkedIn/X. -
Comparing Progress to Other Writers
Problem: Vanity metrics (likes, followers) create discouragement.
Solution: Avoid comparison; many “successful” writers use ghostwriters or bots.
Example: The author ignored others’ viral posts and focused on authenticity. -
Trying to Force Virality
Problem: Virality is random and uncontrollable.
Solution: Write consistently; virality may happen organically.
Example: The author realized timing/headline tricks don’t guarantee virality. -
Avoiding External Feedback
Problem: Writing in isolation leads to errors and unclear messaging.
Solution: Collaborate with writing groups for edits and feedback.
Example: The author improved after joining a feedback group that highlighted his blind spots. -
Chasing Lottery-Style Opportunities
Problem: Rare payouts (e.g., $500/article) are unreliable.
Solution: Build repeatable income streams (e.g., newsletters, paid subscriptions).
Example: The author stopped chasing one-off payments and treated writing as a business. -
Obsessing Over Algorithms
Problem: Algorithms are unpredictable and ever-changing.
Solution: Focus on creating shareable, high-quality content.
Example: The author notes that algorithms prioritize shareable content, not gimmicks.
Final Thought:
Success comes from abandoning gimmicks and focusing on authenticity, skill-building, and audience ownership. Writing is a long-term game, not a lottery.
Examples from the Article:
Gatekeepers: The author checked LinkedIn to expose gatekeepers’ lack of expertise.
Shortcuts: Tried engagement pods but saw no real growth.
Platform Bans: Shifted to multiple platforms after a “misinformation” ban.
Feedback Group: Improved clarity by collaborating with other writers.
Lottery Mentality: Realized $500/article opportunities were statistically unlikely.
Actionable Takeaways:
Build an email list to own your audience.
Learn digital writing skills (headlines, formatting).
Write consistently across 2–3 established platforms.
Ignore vanity metrics; focus on meaningful engagement.
Treat writing as a business, not a hobby.