We don’t write for humans anymore

How to uncurb your creativity again?

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We have a massive content explosion. All the stories, feeds, suggestions and recommendations are based on the popularity index — views and likes — and our own previous history. Our entire worldview is limited and self-reinforcing by these algorithms. And I pander to these algorithms as I try to write content and headings that can get me the most views and likes.

I sat for a couple of days to write an article on Medium and I failed miserably. Sometimes it is difficult to write content that will be picked up by an algorithm or can be fitted into tags. Creatively speaking, I have to focus on the middle man — the algorithm rather than the actual readers. But, I want to write because it gives me pleasure and these are the things I have tried/planning to try to keep my creative juices flowing.

1. Writing Challenges — Weekly writing challenges by Reedsy prompts. There is an abundance of ideas that is emailed to you weekly. and, it sure helps to pick one prompt and start weaving a story around one line.
2. Pick a subject matter — I am deeply interested in Supply chain and IT. And, I love reading about the challenges various companies have faced, how they have resolved on-ground problems, reviews about IT products etc. Since I work in the same sector, I believe I can contribute to the dialogue based on my experience. You can pick the subject matter in which you are an expert and people will love to hear your thoughts.
3. Scheduled time and place — When you enter the kitchen in the morning, you start going through ingredients for breakfast and start making one. It is just that simple if our brain is trained to write at a fixed time and place. Try to build a schedule and target. Things will flow automatically.
4. Join a writers group — People who will listen to what you write, will share what they have written and all over create a subliminal pressure for you to cope up and not lose your passion. This will again reinforce the target in your mind.

And, can I suggest one last thing? Forget about likes and views? Write what you want to and if it is good, the algorithm will follow you rather than the other way round.