This hints at the crux of the problem which is that we've been sold the idea that we have to hustle, hustle, hustle to "make it" as creatives. When, perhaps counterintuitively, slowing down and create spaciousness is actually what often helps our creativity most. But how do we make a living if we can't churn out the constant "content"?
My hope is that things like Substack (and previously Patreon, etc.) are helping to change this by celebrating the creative process over the specific product. I know that people have subscribed to my work in the past because they want to support my overall career, not because they actually read each newsletter. Yes, I produce a product (and I actually try to do so prolifically because I do this full-time), but it's the process, whatever that looks like, that adds value to the world. Ultimately, we still support the creators we believe in, so the work we don't believe in doesn't get our support, but we don't tie that support to one book or one piece of writing.
My own personal goal here is to get 1000 people to subscribe at $100 annually … this creates a six figure income, which is enough to support and sustain me. Moreover, it sets an example for other people to say to the world that we value writing and creativity as a whole process. (And I also participate in artistic tithing so at least 10% of that always goes back to other writers, artists, makers, performers, creatives …) I believe that this is a small way of changing the world to place creative work front and center.
This hints at the crux of the problem which is that we've been sold the idea that we have to hustle, hustle, hustle to "make it" as creatives. When, perhaps counterintuitively, slowing down and create spaciousness is actually what often helps our creativity most. But how do we make a living if we can't churn out the constant "content"?
My hope is that things like Substack (and previously Patreon, etc.) are helping to change this by celebrating the creative process over the specific product. I know that people have subscribed to my work in the past because they want to support my overall career, not because they actually read each newsletter. Yes, I produce a product (and I actually try to do so prolifically because I do this full-time), but it's the process, whatever that looks like, that adds value to the world. Ultimately, we still support the creators we believe in, so the work we don't believe in doesn't get our support, but we don't tie that support to one book or one piece of writing.
My own personal goal here is to get 1000 people to subscribe at $100 annually … this creates a six figure income, which is enough to support and sustain me. Moreover, it sets an example for other people to say to the world that we value writing and creativity as a whole process. (And I also participate in artistic tithing so at least 10% of that always goes back to other writers, artists, makers, performers, creatives …) I believe that this is a small way of changing the world to place creative work front and center.
Oooo this resonates.! So keep writing slowly!
…a wild thing with its own secrets. Perfect.
This is helpful and reassuring. Thank you!
Very true, best thing is to let spirit guide you:) What and exhilarating journey!
Nice
But they are amenable to spin.