13 Comments
User's avatar
mike barth's avatar

absolutely loved this article. its one thing to write for writing itself - its another to align yourself with a purpose / vision / goal for the craft. im constantly trying to "clarify my why" in not only just my writing but all actions in life.

Expand full comment
Megan Haskell's avatar

yaaassss!!!

Expand full comment
Russell Nohelty's avatar

100%!

Expand full comment
Beyond A.I.'s avatar

Megan's perspective on balancing the artistic and business sides of writing is both enlightening and practical. Her focus on intentional decision-making, driven by a clear understanding of one's motives and goals, is a vital lesson for any author striving to find success in their craft.

This approach not only enhances productivity but aligns it with one’s personal vision, ensuring a more fulfilling and directed creative journey. Megan's insights are a valuable resource for writers navigating the complexities of the literary world.

Robert

Expand full comment
Russell Nohelty's avatar

Glad it resonated :) I love the way Megan's mind works.

Expand full comment
Megan Haskell's avatar

Thank you so much for the kind words!

Expand full comment
Robin Reardon's avatar

It's all about objective. I've said this for years. This question "why" applies to everything. Sure, there are just-do-its in life. But the more important, and/or the more complex something is, the more critical it is to understand the why of it. And we do that by asking "why" until the answers bring no more clarity.

Expand full comment
Megan Haskell's avatar

Love this!!

Expand full comment
Russell Nohelty's avatar

100%. I agree.

Expand full comment
Rey Katz (they/them)'s avatar

Great article with great questions. A lot to think about, thank you!

Expand full comment
Megan Haskell's avatar

So glad it resonated!

Expand full comment
Jennifer Silva Redmond's avatar

So very important to.clarify the why. And it is helpful too as Megan says.

Expand full comment
Joanna George's avatar

Really helpful piece. It’s something that I thought about at the beginning of my Substack journey and it’s why my first post was about why I came over to Substack (former Cambridge law academic wanting to bring my interest in democracy, popular culture and spirituality into one writing space). Would definitely recommend that all writers with a Substack write a “why I came over to Substack and this is why I write” piece. Not only does it keep the writer focused, but it helps form a stronger connection with readers (actual or potential).

Expand full comment