Too Niche For My Own Good

And what to do about it

Over the years, I’ve backed myself into a corner.

And I’m the only one standing in it.

Sure, a few people come over sometimes, but I’ve scared them off.

I’ve been too niche for my own good.

Most of the time I’m hypercritical and sarcastic. That’s not safe for others. And what it’s done is left me in a corner by myself in a place where I’m trying to create art, but no one feels like they can come in or take a look. Or more than likely, I haven’t been too inviting, either.

A change needs to be made. I need to find better ways to share ideas with more people.

Does that mean “selling out?” (I could only hope).

Does that mean giving up my core beliefs? (Nope).

Does that mean trying to please everyone? (Impossible).

No, I don’t think it’s any of that. What it means is finally taking some simple advice to heart that I’ve heard over and over again but have ignored. You’ve probably heard it, too. Usually, it takes many forms such as “add value” and “meet market demand” but what I think it really boils down to is this, especially in regards to my creative work right now: Listen more carefully to others.

What difference has this made?

I’ve asked more questions. I’ve emailed people that interact with my writing and have asked them about the content they’d liked to see. I’ve asked them to give me book suggestions. And I’ve searched online to understand the information people are interested in and how I can help with that.

I’ve assumed less. I really believe writers and artists have an imperative to see things that others can’t see, to proclaim unusual thoughts and directions and to make in a way that inspires awe, wonder and fresh thinking. But there is a dangerous arrogance when we believe that every thought is amazing and it’s the fault of the masses that they “just don’t get it.” I admit — that’s where I was with my writing for a long time.

I’m more patient. I still want to create new things that are hard and challenging, but there’s timing for everything. There are soft sells and humble introductions. There are pathways that can make concepts easier and then be built upon. I don’t want to assume everyone is tracking with me (they aren’t) or that they understand what I’m doing (because I don’t either).

I’d rather be accessible, than too niche.

I’d rather help people down a path through a few things that I’m interested in, and then follow behind them on their paths as well. I need to be a better learner, that’s what I’m saying.

It’s time to get out of the corner. Being too niche isn’t helping anyone. Not even me.