When you write for everyone, no one listens

Why “Just Write” Should Be Step 2, NOT Step 1 in the Process

PNG made by author in PowerPoint

So what SHOULD step one be?

Step one needs to be knowing who your audience is and speaking to them in the language they want, need, and crave.

So, why don’t you see this guidance in the hundreds, maybe thousands of articles on The Medium and other sites telling you what it takes to be a good writer? They all seem to start with the first step — “Just write.”

Just Write Belongs To Journal/Diary Writers

Don’t get me wrong, “Just write” is great advice if you are going to write in a journal/diary.

If you are writing to publish AND make money, your first step needs to be figure out WHO wants to read your writing and why.

The AND MONEY part is what makes the step one “Just write” unsound advice.

Writing as a business is like any other business.

First rule of thumb is if you try to speak to everyone, NO ONE LISTENS.