I know the feeling. I have always been like that (not just in writing) but with everything else. As a teacher, as a personal trainer, as a chef I have found myself gravitating over and over to working alone or as a contractor; or looking for jobs or gigs that allows for more freedom - for me, for my family, for my writing/podcasting, hiking - because of that. As an example, I always disliked working at gyms because I couldn't have the time or the creative freedom to help people how I wanted (most of the time workout templates and specific approaches are not good), but as a freelancer that was totally different - I helped and I felt fulfilled because I was able to take my time and let my mind flow (I could teach rather thatn train). Fortunately my current work allows me to have a big chunk of that freedom and creativity.
In my Newsletter/podcast my only rule is that at least once a month I publish something (that is, within 30 days after the last post (~). But it has been confusing. Even from Substack there is always the advice of "consistency". I keep fighting the pressure to keep a weekly and steady cadence (same day, same time); so that readers and listeners feel that I am "dedicated, and trustworthy" of delivering: a professional. But every time I try that, I become so stressed and I lose my muse and desire to even write, and every time I end up being less ashamed of writings and posting wheI want or can. So yes, take your time!
Matt, please know you are not disappointing anyone with wanting to shake things up and only post when you really want to share something you truly care about. Your writing is cool, inspiring, and most importantly makes you happy and that's all that matters. And if you want to post only every so often, I personally think that's a fantastic idea! It's like looking forward to receiving a handwritten letter in the mail from your very best friend about an exciting adventure they are on and we as the readers get to look forward to the next letter in the mailbox because we know that when we open it up and read it, your letter is going to be filled with passion, emotion, and funny little moments that you very sweetly share with your readers that will stick with us and make us smile throughout the day. You do whats best for you, my friend. Your creativeness should not be dampened by the constraints of any system but be allowed to breathe and be fluid like most beautiful creations in the universe. The rest of us will be here patiently waiting and will not care/nor judge about the times in between. And if anyone does complain, just kick them in their no-no zone and keep doing you. They will be fine, I promise. :)
Hi, Thank you for your honesty--this is why I have initiated a Substack but haven't posted to it, ha! I just want to write Book III and time is so, so precious. Good luck to you.
Fine by me, Matt. I am so anti-deadline (for my own writing.) I was writing more than I ever had during the fall and winter and now spring is here and there's so much more to do. Enjoy the freedom of writing when creativity calls! :)
...and when I am ready with s new memoir chapter or feel moved to write something different for me. I don’t get a lot of written feedback, but I cherish what I do receive, and it does not affect my dedication to the writing. Like you say- it is a drive that comes from within. Keep on being authentic! ❤️
Just reading this today: Good luck with your new writing and video projects! I totally get it! I started a video documentary 10 years ago that I hope to get back to. I snuggled with some of the technology/editing but found interviewing and creating a story line delicious. I am or was primarily a painter and now find myself splitting my time with both. my art making & art teaching.lwebsite:www.susanfuscofazio.com. I am slow to update it, and post on Substack when I have time
Well, I can't lie Matt, I'm going to miss your weeklies. I had gotten to the point of looking forward to them, wondering where you'd go with it this week. But I do get it. I've felt the same yearnings for open-ended exploration for much of my life. And hell, I've never been much of a deadline guy anyway. With the exception of work that is because those deadlines impact many other people so there is that. Or I should say, there was that. I am officially retiring, have submitted my paperwork and have a little over a week remaining. At that point the notion of "open-ended" will be my new normal. I'll still look forward to whatever you bring to the table. I've found that all your dishes are delicious and nutritious.
I know the feeling. I have always been like that (not just in writing) but with everything else. As a teacher, as a personal trainer, as a chef I have found myself gravitating over and over to working alone or as a contractor; or looking for jobs or gigs that allows for more freedom - for me, for my family, for my writing/podcasting, hiking - because of that. As an example, I always disliked working at gyms because I couldn't have the time or the creative freedom to help people how I wanted (most of the time workout templates and specific approaches are not good), but as a freelancer that was totally different - I helped and I felt fulfilled because I was able to take my time and let my mind flow (I could teach rather thatn train). Fortunately my current work allows me to have a big chunk of that freedom and creativity.
In my Newsletter/podcast my only rule is that at least once a month I publish something (that is, within 30 days after the last post (~). But it has been confusing. Even from Substack there is always the advice of "consistency". I keep fighting the pressure to keep a weekly and steady cadence (same day, same time); so that readers and listeners feel that I am "dedicated, and trustworthy" of delivering: a professional. But every time I try that, I become so stressed and I lose my muse and desire to even write, and every time I end up being less ashamed of writings and posting wheI want or can. So yes, take your time!
Love your writing, gracias for sharing!🖖🏽
Matt, please know you are not disappointing anyone with wanting to shake things up and only post when you really want to share something you truly care about. Your writing is cool, inspiring, and most importantly makes you happy and that's all that matters. And if you want to post only every so often, I personally think that's a fantastic idea! It's like looking forward to receiving a handwritten letter in the mail from your very best friend about an exciting adventure they are on and we as the readers get to look forward to the next letter in the mailbox because we know that when we open it up and read it, your letter is going to be filled with passion, emotion, and funny little moments that you very sweetly share with your readers that will stick with us and make us smile throughout the day. You do whats best for you, my friend. Your creativeness should not be dampened by the constraints of any system but be allowed to breathe and be fluid like most beautiful creations in the universe. The rest of us will be here patiently waiting and will not care/nor judge about the times in between. And if anyone does complain, just kick them in their no-no zone and keep doing you. They will be fine, I promise. :)
Hi, Thank you for your honesty--this is why I have initiated a Substack but haven't posted to it, ha! I just want to write Book III and time is so, so precious. Good luck to you.
I support it!
You write in all caps???!!!
Fine by me, Matt. I am so anti-deadline (for my own writing.) I was writing more than I ever had during the fall and winter and now spring is here and there's so much more to do. Enjoy the freedom of writing when creativity calls! :)
I know exactly where you’re coming from, Matt. Follow your heart and everything will fall into place. Good luck with your future projects. 😊
Ah yes, welcome to the "write every day, publish when ready" way of doing it. Kudos on publishing once a week so far though, really impressive.
Brave decision. Good luck. Food for thought:
https://poets.org/poem/so-you-want-be-writer
...and when I am ready with s new memoir chapter or feel moved to write something different for me. I don’t get a lot of written feedback, but I cherish what I do receive, and it does not affect my dedication to the writing. Like you say- it is a drive that comes from within. Keep on being authentic! ❤️
Just reading this today: Good luck with your new writing and video projects! I totally get it! I started a video documentary 10 years ago that I hope to get back to. I snuggled with some of the technology/editing but found interviewing and creating a story line delicious. I am or was primarily a painter and now find myself splitting my time with both. my art making & art teaching.lwebsite:www.susanfuscofazio.com. I am slow to update it, and post on Substack when I have time
Well, I can't lie Matt, I'm going to miss your weeklies. I had gotten to the point of looking forward to them, wondering where you'd go with it this week. But I do get it. I've felt the same yearnings for open-ended exploration for much of my life. And hell, I've never been much of a deadline guy anyway. With the exception of work that is because those deadlines impact many other people so there is that. Or I should say, there was that. I am officially retiring, have submitted my paperwork and have a little over a week remaining. At that point the notion of "open-ended" will be my new normal. I'll still look forward to whatever you bring to the table. I've found that all your dishes are delicious and nutritious.
😂🤣😊
We'll be out here waiting, so carry on
highest regards,
Fred