Understanding the Importance of Value in Writing

Numerous sources of inspiration surround us, sparking creative ideas at every turn. Engaging in regular writing, such as morning pages, can lead to a significant word count. However, when crafting content for an audience, a pivotal question must be addressed:

What value am I offering to my readers?

Occasionally, I encounter articles that seem to focus more on self-promotion rather than genuine content. Writers sometimes become preoccupied with their ability to publish without considering the worthiness of their writing. If an article fails to provide any meaningful insights, why would anyone choose to read it?

Readers are unlikely to engage with content that serves merely to entertain. Successful articles on platforms like Medium clearly articulate a benefit and deliver on that promise. For instance, I recently came across an article by Joan Westenberg that exemplifies this principle:

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Westenberg’s concise title draws readers in, inviting them to explore. Her key takeaway resonated with me: the only thing you can truly control is your commitment to show up. By consistently engaging with your writing practice, you can develop your skills and work towards achieving your aspirations.

Her article not only promised value through its title but also fulfilled that promise with meaningful content. While my personal appreciation for her insights matters, the over 14,000 claps on her article indicate that many others found it valuable as well.

This instance illustrates a vital aspect of value—it is inherently subjective. What resonates with one individual may not hold the same significance for another.

When I write, I approach topics, headlines, and drafts with a mindset focused on the likelihood of appealing to a diverse audience, acknowledging that not everyone will find my work beneficial.

That’s perfectly acceptable.

Not every piece will become a top-tier article. Particularly for newer writers, achieving widespread recognition can be challenging. However, as you refine your content creation skills and perhaps experience some fortunate breaks, recognition may come, though it is never guaranteed.

The essential takeaway is to remain mindful of the value you provide to your audience through your writing. When you prioritize this, your work will resonate more deeply.

If you found this article insightful, consider giving it a clap and following my work. Explore some of my other writings here:

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