Embrace Authenticity: Why Knowing Your Audience Can Mislead You
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Chapter 1: The Trap of Audience Awareness
Understanding your audience is undoubtedly important. Over time, you learn what resonates with them, what prompts comments, and what garners applause. However, what if I suggested that this advice might be misleading and even harmful?
You might feel a bit defensive as you read this, but hear me out. I've been in that position, and it often leads to a situation where it becomes less about your voice and more about appeasing your readers. Before you realize it, you're in a submissive role, eager to please, and striving to meet their expectations at all costs.
Imagine yourself as a devoted pet, eager to perform tricks for approval every time you hear, "Shake!" If that's your goal, that's one way to approach writing. But don't fool yourself into thinking that you're writing for your own sake. You're no longer creating for yourself; the focus shifts entirely to satisfying others.
This creates a toxic dynamic. While you might seek common ground with your audience, you end up endlessly worrying about catering to their whims, which can be a precarious path, especially if your following is still in its infancy.
What commonality can you find when your audience consists of just a handful of individuals who genuinely engage with your work? You may find yourself chasing after every guideline, aiming to win over editors, and vying for attention in prestigious publications. This is far worse than mere flattery; it reduces you to a writer without a unique voice, lost in the crowd.
It's essential to recognize that it’s impossible to please everyone. So, what should you do instead?
Prioritize Your Authentic Voice
Focus on establishing your voice first, and don’t shy away from showcasing it. Rather than becoming a desperate pleaser, make your unique voice your top priority. You need to assert yourself firmly and make it clear that you won’t compromise.
This principle applies to all aspects of life. If you find yourself constantly bending to others' demands, unable to stand your ground, and letting others mistreat you, respect will be elusive. The same holds true in writing; if you seek respect, you must earn it.
Claim your space. Prove your worth. Stand firm in your convictions. Approach your writing with confidence, allowing your readers to sense that assurance. If someone doesn’t appreciate your style, they can easily choose to follow others.
Who wants to engage with overly sensitive readers who nitpick every word that doesn't align with their narrow views? I want to write boldly and unapologetically, without any reservations!
If my recent tone has seemed extreme, I understand it may have shocked some of my followers. Yes, it’s been radical, and while I apologize for any discomfort it caused, I won’t backtrack on my approach.
My recent inspirations have been raw and powerful, and while it may not resonate with everyone, it certainly fuels my creativity. I needed this liberation. It's been far too long since I experienced the joy of writing freely.
Writing used to feel like a bland meal after a long fast—satisfactory, but not fulfilling. Now, I crave the experience of indulging in a richly crafted dish, savored to the fullest. I don’t want to simply smile; I want to revel in my joy, even to the point of overwhelming emotion.
If writing doesn’t allow for that freedom, what’s the purpose?
I've witnessed both sides of this struggle, and the choice is abundantly clear. I’ve spent too much time adhering to rigid guidelines to know how stifling that can be. Conversely, I’ve also enjoyed the liberation that comes with following my own instincts.
Now that I’ve returned to that authentic approach, there’s no turning back. I’ve tasted the bittersweet nostalgia and recognize what I’ve missed. There’s no compelling reason to revert to being a mere imitation. That would be foolish.
Forget about just knowing your audience; instead, let them get to know you first. Once they’ve embraced you for who you truly are, you can foster a genuine connection, allowing for a more authentic relationship.
Critics don’t matter. I refuse to let negativity hinder my creativity or fall victim to writer's block.
You’re not alone in this journey. If you’re passionate about writing, even amidst a busy schedule, consider joining me at Hustle & Write:
Chapter 2: The Importance of Audience Engagement
Engaging with your audience is vital, but it’s crucial to approach it with the right mindset.